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111/29/2008 - by Anne Marie Nielson
  
Pregnancy Bloating

Bloating and gas is part of pregnancy. Bloating can be described as both that full uncomfortable feeling you have with gas, or when your body tissues fill with fluid. Both types are common in pregnancy.

Bloating with Gas
The increasing presence of the hormone progesterone relaxes the smooth muscle tissue in the body. This includes the muscles in your gastrointestinal tract. The effects of progesterone slow down the process of digestion. This can lead to excess gas, bloating, flatulence and burping as well as the uncomfortable feeling you get in these conditions. As your belly grows, this slows down the digestion even more.

Gas forms in the digestive system when you swallow air and by the breakdown of food by bacteria in your colon. Gas is caused by certain carbohydrates, while bloating may be increased by eating fats. Due to the slowing down of the digestive system during pregnancy, the bacteria in the colon has more time to work on the food passing through, creating more gas. Constipation can also make you more bloated and gassy.

Changing the diet may be helpful in some cases. Dairy may be the culprit… it is in many people because their body is lactose intolerant. Other foods that cause gas are beans, vegetables in the cabbage family, onions, artichokes, pears and soda. Fruit drinks may also be a source. Some starches, like potatoes and pasta, may be a problem. Fatty and fried foods don't cause gas, but they digest more slowly, resulting in a bloated feeling.

For relief, try eating smaller meals more frequently throughout the day. Spend your mealtime chewing carefully, and limit your talking. Drink during the rest of the day, not during mealtime. When you do have a drink, use a cup or a glass instead of a straw or bottle, and try not to gulp. Cut out carbonated beverages. Always sit up while you are eating. Don't wear tight clothing around your stomach. Get some exercise. Stop smoking… it increases the acidity in your stomach.

Fluid Retention
Bloating caused by fluid retention is usually at its worst in the third trimester, but it can start earlier. If you are experiencing hot weather, it can worsen the symptoms. Fluid retention is caused by changing hormone levels, which make your tissues hold more fluid than normal.

To help alleviate this condition, try to lie down or elevate your feet occasionally throughout the day. Don't wear tight clothing, socks or shoes, as they can make it worse. Exercise to help circulate the fluids in your body. Drink water. It may sound strange, but drinking enough water will actually help flush out the excess fluid. Be sure to drink at least 6 to 8 glasses per day.

There are also some foods with diuretic properties that you can add to your diet when needed. Celery is a natural diuretic, and it can easily be added as part of a snack. Onion, garlic and eggplant also have diuretic qualities. Parsley should be eaten in moderation, as large quantities may trigger contractions. Coffee or tea are natural diuretics, but should be taken in small amounts due to the caffeine they contain. Peppermint is another choice you can try if you like mint.

At From Pregnancy To Baby, we try to provide you with all of the latest information about going through your pregnancy from your first trimester to the first years of your new babies life. We also provide the highest quality books and products to help you through that time.

Source: http://www.frompregnancytobaby.com/pregnancy-bloating.html