The food we eat contains nutrients, bioactive compounds, minerals, vitamins, fiber, antioxidants and much more that can help our body feel good when it needs it. We are what we eat. If we eat incorrectly, the probability of harming the various systems in our body is high.
Pregnant women experience a range of pains and discomforts during this period of trial for the mind and body. The fact that they cannot take medication to relieve these pains and discomforts makes the situation even more difficult.
Fortunately, through food, we can affect the various types of pain and discomfort during pregnancy. Here's how.
Headaches
Headaches during pregnancy can occur for a variety of reasons – stress, tension, low levels of certain minerals, muscle weakness or cramps, raging hormones, increased blood flow, dehydration. The factors are many. But it's important to emphasize magnesium to relieve headaches. The highest amounts of the mineral important for the nervous system are found in spinach.
Constipation
Constipation is a very common problem during pregnancy due to hormonal changes in the female body that relax the muscles of the intestines and make them more inert. To provoke their normal movement and peristalsis, emphasize foods rich in fiber.
Cramps in legs
Magnesium is important at these times. This mineral relieves muscle spasms and reduces pain. Eat more dark green leafy vegetables, nuts, seeds, fish, beans, avocados, whole grains, bananas, dairy products, dried fruit and dark chocolate.
Indigestion and heartburn
Again, the change in hormones and increased levels of progesterone during pregnancy are to blame for the relaxation of the smooth muscles of the organs. This causes stomach acids to easily back up into the esophagus, causing burning pain in the chest.
The best way to neutralize stomach acids is water with freshly squeezed lemon juice or ginger decoction.
Morning sickness
Another common discomfort during pregnancy is morning sickness. It can continue beyond the first trimester. Ginger helps in this case too, soothing an upset stomach and suppressing the urge to vomit.
Fungal infection
Vaginal fungus is also not uncommon during pregnancy. Infections occur due to increased vaginal secretion, which creates conditions for the reproduction of microorganisms. Emphasize yogurt and fermented foods that contain beneficial bacteria and yeast. They balance the flora in the intestines and vagina by counteracting fungi.
