Morning sickness is nausea that occurs during pregnancy, primarily in the morning, during the first trimester of pregnancy. The term "morning sickness" is somewhat misleading because morning sickness can occur any time of day. According to the Mayo Clinic, 50 percent to 90 percent of pregnant women are affected by morning sickness.
Watch What You Eat
It is important to monitor your eating habits to support good health. Develop a sense of which foods can trigger morning sickness as well as which foods can help treat it. For instance, avoid greasy, spicy or fatty foods. Instead choose protein, carbohydrates and foods low in fat. Salty foods or foods containing ginger can be helpful in relieving your morning sickness. Snacking frequently can also help to alleviate morning sickness, according to the Mayo Clinic. An empty stomach can cause or aggravate nausea during pregnancy. Snacking on dry toast, saltine crackers or gelatin or drinking broth is a quick way to curb the sensation of nausea.
Stay Hydrated
Dehydration is a direct cause of nausea. It is important to drink an ample amount of water, preferably a minimum of 10 glasses per day. Some women find relief in chewing ice chips, which helps with nausea and supports hydration. Ginger ale or ginger tea is also a good option for keeping hydrated and treating nausea.
Adjust the Timing for Prenatal Vitamins
Many women find that taking prenatal vitamins can cause or worsen morning sickness. To avoid nausea, take them after a meal or snack. The University of Maryland Medical Center suggests taking them at night, after dinner when you are less active versus taking them in the morning.
