Digestive enzymes are natural supplements that can be taken to aid in the digestion of different kinds of foods. Digestive enzymes can be taken to reduce gas and bloating after a meal, to increase natural stomach acid production or to help digestion when many different foods are eaten at one sitting. Some digestive enzymes are suggested for use during pregnancy, while others should be avoided.
Step 1
Take lactase to help with dairy digestion. According to MayoClinic.com, lactase is OK and safe to take while pregnant for help with digesting dairy products such as milk, yogurt and cheese. A lactase supplement can be taken with the first bite or drink of dairy. Although MayoClinic.com suggests lactase is safe during pregnancy, consult your health care provider before using it.
Step 2
Do not take pancreatin while pregnant, advises DrugInformationOnline.com. Pancreatin is a digestive enzyme that is used for improving digestion of fatty foods. If you wish to take pancreatin while you are pregnant, be sure to get approval from your health care provider.
Step 3
Consume foods that are a source of natural digestive enzymes and stimulants. Drinking a glass of water splashed with apple cider vinegar or fresh lemon juice stimulates the liver to produce bile, aiding in some digestive processes. Pineapple also contains some digestive enzymes and can be eaten in between meals to stimulate the gastro-intestinal tract to complete digestion that is unfinished. Stimulating digestive processes in between meals can also help reduce inflammation and toxin buildup in the body, according to naturopathic doctor John Matsen in his book ''Eating Alive.''
References
- MayoClinic.com: Pregnancy Nutrition
- Drug Information Online: Pancreatin Use During Pregnancy
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Intestinal Parasites
- ''Essentials of Human Anatomy and Physiology (ninth edition)''; Elaine Marieb; 2009
- ''Encyclopedia of Nutritional Supplements''; Michael Murray; 1996
- ''Eating Alive: Prevention Thru Good Digestion''; John Matsen; 2010
