Nausea affects about three-quarters of all pregnant women, according to BabyCenter. Caused primarily by soaring hormone levels, nausea usually develops around Week 6 of pregnancy and resolves by about 14 weeks. It is usually more intense in the morning and improves as the day goes on. Women who suffer from this unfortunate symptom have several options for foods and eating strategies that can help.
Crackers and Pretzels
Crackers and pretzels help many women with nausea. The reason for this may be that these snacks do not contain complex proteins or fats, which are more difficult for the body to digest, and do not have a strong smell or taste. Crackers and pretzels are easy to carry along for a quick nosh at work well as a middle-of-the-night snack for women who wake up during the night feeling nauseous.
Ginger
Whether eaten raw, such as the slices of ginger provided at a sushi restaurant, or as a component of real ginger ale, ginger has long been known to settle a queasy stomach. Ginger can also be grated into hot water to make a sort of tea. Even sniffing ginger seems to help some women ward off nausea.
Lemon
Lemon also has anti-nausea properties for some women. Lemon can be squeezed into almost any drink. Some women suck on a lemon wedge or enjoy lemon-flavored candy. Lemon also provides anti-nausea effects when it is smelled.
High-Protein Snacks
Because having an empty stomach can make nausea worse, pregnant women should eat small meals frequently throughout the day. The March of Dimes recommends that pregnant women avoid letting their stomachs become completely empty. During times when you won't be able to eat for a long stretch, such as during the night, eat a snack that takes a while to digest. Snacks high in protein (such as lean meats and cheeses) fit this bill.
Liquids
Dehydration can cause or worsen nausea. Therefore, keeping well-hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids, particularly clear, caffeine-free beverages, goes a long way toward reducing nausea. Just don't drink too much at a time, because then you will be less hungry for the food you need. Drinking juices that contain fiber and vitamins can do double duty by providing hydration and nutrients you and your baby need.
