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Pregnancy Symptoms Constipation
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Pregnancy Symptoms - Constipation

Just like bloating, constipation is also a common problem during pregnancy. In fact, the problem of constipation affects almost half of all pregnant women. Though a common pregnancy symptom, constipation during pregnancy is nothing serious and therefore nothing much to worry about.

In pregnancy, constipation is caused due to the increasing pressure that the growing uterus puts on the rectum. The hormone progesterone also works to relax the muscles of the body, therefore causing the metabolic processes to slow down. When digestion slows down, it gives the blood time to utilize as many nutrients in the body as possible. However, this also slows the transit of food through the body, therefore causing constipation. Another factor that causes this pregnancy symptom is the change in the diet that you make because of morning sickness and nausea. Sometimes, iron supplements taken during the pregnancy can worsen the constipation.

Fortunately, constipation during pregnancy is not something that you have to silently endure. You can improve your diet to include high fiber foods which allow food to pass through the alimentary canal faster. Whole grains and pulses can help in adding texture to the food. You can also add wheat bran to any dough to make it richer in fiber. Fresh fruits and vegetables also add soluble fiber to your diet and, therefore, are highly recommended. However, if you are accustomed to a low fiber diet, increase the fiber content slowly or it may cause cramps in the abdominal region and actually worsen the constipation. If you suffer from constipation often, try to reduce consumption of refined and fatty foods.

To keep your body hydrated, drink lots of water and other fluids. This can help keep the stools soft so that they can be passed from the body more easily. When you are drinking fluids, avoid caffeinated beverages or soda because those can intensify the bloating. Instead, drink coconut water and fresh fruit juice. You can also eat dried prunes and dates along with lukewarm water. These help in getting rid of constipation. Flax seed powder is also excellent for the treatment of constipation.

It is a common misconception that during pregnancy women should rest all the time. In fact, some light stretching and exercising can help keep the body fit and the metabolism strong. Following a regular exercise routine can help you increase stamina and deal with the pregnancy symptoms better. Walking around the block or light yoga stretching are the best ways to keep yourself fit during pregnancy.
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