Q: Treating heartburn?
Posted
Friday, December 19, 2008 1:33 PM
Q: How can I safely treat heartburn while pregnant?
A: Oh, one of the many joys of pregnancy: heartburn. But that burning sensation in your chest and the acid reflux in your throat don’t have to be a given. Check out over-the-counter medicines like Tums and Rolaids--just be sure you look at the labels. Avoid antacids that contain sodium citrate, sodium bicarbonate, aluminum, and aspirin (which may be listed as salicylate or acetylsalicylic acid) because they increase constipation and swelling. Make sure you check with your doctor before you take any other type of antacid. It’s always better to be overly cautious than an OTC renegade when you’re pregnant.
If you’d rather go the homeopathic route, try a tablespoon of honey in warm milk, a handful of almonds, or some fresh or dried papaya. Some find that chewing gum after meals also helps reduce acid.
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