Digestive complaints are, unfortunately, quite common during pregnancy. Particularly in the early stages, pregnancy hormones can slow the muscular movements of the digestive tract, leading to uncomfortable bloating and constipation. Later in pregnancy, hormones can relax the upper parts of the digestive system. In addition, pregnant women require higher amounts of calcium and protein. Probiotics, live organisms that can restore balance to levels of intestinal bacteria and support immunity, are helpful during pregnancy. Increasing your intake of foods containing probiotics can aid digestion and boost your nutritional status, both at the same time.
Yogurt
Yogurt is one of the most familiar probiotic-containing foods. Easy to find in any grocery store, yogurt comes in plain or flavored varieties, and is available in non-fat, low-fat or full-fat versions. When selecting yogurt, be sure to read the label in order to be sure you are getting the probiotics you seek. Look for strains including lactobacillus and bifidobacterium.
Cottage Cheese
If you prefer probiotics in a more savory form, cottage cheese is a good choice, although it does not contain as much of the beneficial bacteria as yogurt does. Rich, creamy and full of protein and calcium, cottage cheese makes a delicious salad topping or can be enjoyed as a healthy side dish with any meal. Again, be sure to check the nutritional information to be sure it contains the probiotics you are after; the words "live active cultures" should appear somewhere on the label. Horizon Organics and Breakstone's Live Active are two brands of cottage cheese to look for.
Probiotic Pills
If you are allergic to dairy or lactose intolerant, you can still benefit from probiotics, but you will have to look for your good bacteria in pill form. Probiotic supplements are available in health food stores and some well-stocked grocery stores. They often require refrigeration, so check the cooler section. Since probiotic bacteria are already present in the normal digestive tract, they are considered safe. Let your doctor or midwife know that you've added probiotics to your diet.
