Constipation is a very common problem during pregnancy. Many women find themselves asking what foods that cause constipation during pregnancy are safe to eat. After all, most women are already dealing with a variety of health problems brought on by pregnancy, and any additional issues can only add to them.
It is generally when you experience less than 3 bowel motions per week or you having difficulty in regular bowel movement or hard bowel motion. This is related to the hormones in pregnancy, which actually makes your digestive system slow.
Constipation or hemorrhoids can be very uncomfortable during pregnancy and causes you pain, itching, and bleeding.
10 Foods that can cause constipation during pregnancy
In reality, though, there are several foods that cause constipation during pregnancy that you should be avoiding at all costs. In addition, some of these foods are even considered to be downright dangerous for you!
1. Caffeine
One of the main foods that cause constipation during pregnancy is caffeine. It is especially bad for pregnant women who drink coffee or tea regularly. Even soda, which is a relatively mild beverage, can cause the same issues as coffee.
Foods that cause constipation during pregnancy are those that are filled with caffeine. These include most soft drinks, coffee, tea, chocolate, soda pop, energy drinks, and even hot chocolate.
While they are usually safe to consume on a daily basis, it is best to avoid them when you are pregnant. Excessive caffeine consumption can cause premature contractions and make delivery more difficult. You can have herbal tea (as per your doctor’s advice only) as they are diuretics that lower the fluids content in the body and cause constipation.
2. Spicy food
Even more common than caffeine, another food that causes constipation during pregnancy is spicy foods. If you love fiery foods like Mexican chili, you may want to forego it while you are pregnant. Caffeine can make the burning of these foods unbearable. Instead, opt for something with a bit more sweetness, like honey. Fruit can be a good thing in moderation. Bananas, oranges, and kiwi fruit are safe to eat on a daily basis and can actually help you with your constipation problems.
3. Sugar
There are also certain foods that cause constipation during pregnancy that you may want to avoid. This is mainly due to the effect they have on your baby. Foods that cause indigestion are often full of simple carbohydrates that are quickly turned into sugar in the body.
As you get ready for your baby’s arrival, you will likely feel hungry and choose to eat the wrong foods.
Many of the foods that cause constipation during pregnancy are loaded with refined sugars and lack fiber. These are two things that you do not need while you are pregnant. Foods such as sodas, cakes, and other processed foods are loaded with empty calories that can only harm your baby. Eating fruits and vegetables is a great way to get the fiber and nutrients that your body needs.
4. Junk foods
Junk food is not a good choice during pregnancy. It causes constipation as well as gas, abdominal pain, and discomfort, which is not healthy for you and your baby. During pregnancy, pregnant moms love to eat spicy, fried food, and junk food but it is always wise to drop the idea of having them.
5. Bread
White bread is not a healthy choice when pregnant especially if bread contains gluten. Bread causes gas, acidity, and constipation. You can eat whole wheat bread than white bread or gluten-free.
6. Gluten containing food
Gluten is a protein, which is generally found in grains such as rye or wheat. Some mothers may experience constipation if taking Gluten in their food common like bread. Another option is to eat gluten-free food items or just avoid eating them. Consult with your doctor if experience any problem with gluten during pregnancy.
7. Milk and dairy products
Sometimes dairy products may cause constipation this only cause problem in mothers who are sensitive to the proteins found in cow’s milk. You must ask your doctor if you experiencing any problems like gas, constipation, or abdominal discomfort after taking dairy products.
8. Processed grains or food
White bread, white pasta white rice are processed grains, which contain very little fiber and can cause constipation. You may have whole grains than the processed grains, as they are rich in fibers.
9. Red meat
Eating too much red meat during pregnancy may leave you constipated. Red meat is high in fat and contains less amount of fiber as a high amount of fat in food may take a longer time to digest. This may increase the risk of constipation.
You should include a fiber-rich diet in your diet like lentils, pulses, legumes, beans, and peas.
Some of the other foods that cause constipation during pregnancy include potatoes, rice, and candy bars.
There are plenty of healthy alternatives that you can eat instead of the unhealthy foods mentioned above. Making small changes to your diet is the best way to be healthy while you are pregnant. Your child is in your hands, so you should do all you can to keep him or her happy and healthy.
10. Alcohol
Avoid alcohol during pregnancy. Drinking alcohol may increase the chances of dehydration or fluid loss via urine and there are more possibilities of having constipation. The effects may be different from person to person. But it is better for you and your baby if avoid alcohol.
The good news is that you are not alone. There are many resources available online that can help you understand the many symptoms pregnant women experience. In addition, there are many books written about pregnancy and motherhood specifically for pregnant women. Many of these books can be helpful guides for the first few weeks after birth. However, as your baby grows it is important to remember that you should be eating a balanced diet that consists of foods rich in protein and fiber.
If you want to make sure you are eating a healthy diet throughout your pregnancy, it is important to read up on all of the different foods that cause constipation during pregnancy. Then, you can start making healthy food choices that will make your new belly feel the best it can.
You will also be taking care of your new child while feeling better. After all, nothing is better than a happy pregnancy.
When it comes to foods that cause constipation during pregnancy, eating a diet filled with healthy foods is the best way to be healthy.
You do not want to have to take laxatives in order to eliminate gas. Although they may relieve some of the pain, they are also empty calories that will not help your baby. Moreover, hemorrhoid ointments contain local anesthetics effects of mercury as well which can be absorbed and may be able to harm your baby.
A healthy diet consists of lots of fresh vegetables, fruit, salads, juices, cooked veggies, and whole grains.
If you are still experiencing constipation after avoiding foods that are causing constipation and or it is getting worse then talk with your doctor for advice or any dietary modifications
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I am experienced health professional (B.Sc. Nursing, P.GD Nursing). I am passionate to provide valuable information about Maternal and child Health. My goal is to provide the right and trustworthy information about pregnancy and baby care.
