Myth or Fact: Porridge Beans Causes Heartburn In Pregnancy

So many changes come with being pregnant from swollen ankles to weakness and fatigue and sometimes an increase in appetite. But what most women never expect during pregnancy is heartburn!

 

Heartburns are commonly seen in pregnancy and can be caused by a variety of factors which will be discussed in this article. However, so many fables are in circulation claiming porridge beans could be a cause of heartburn in pregnancy. How true is this fable and can we categorize it as a myth or fact?

 

Causes of heartburn in pregnancy

Heartburn is usually a burning sensation in the chest area caused when the acid in your stomach backs up against your stomach and into your esophagus. This usually occurs due to the malfunctioning of the lower esophageal sphincter leading to acid reflux popularly called heartburn. In pregnancy, there are a few causes of heartburn and they include:

* Hormones(Progesterone)

Normally, food travels down the esophagus through a muscular valve called the esophageal sphincter and into the stomach. This lower esophageal sphincter works like a doorway between the stomach and esophagus. It usually opens to allow food in and closes to stop the acids from coming up.

Progesterone which is a necessary hormone in pregnancy used for nurturing the baby and the womb is implicated in causing heartburn. Progesterone works as a muscle relaxer, relaxing the muscles of the lower esophageal sphincter meaning that they don't close as they used to since the muscles are now slack. This can cause the acid to back up your stomach and enter your esophagus.

 

* Delayed gastric emptying

This happens when food is left in the stomach for a long time. This makes the stomach think that more acid is needed to deal with the issue. Lying down in this situation with food sitting in the stomach may cause heartburn due to the synchronized effect.

 

* Growing fetus

As the fetus grows in the second and third trimester it competes for space with the other organs in the body. This pressure on the organs can cause stomach acids to spill out especially when the stomach is filled up.

 

 

Is porridge beans safe for pregnant women?

Beans are a great source of protein and fiber and are known to relieve constipation in pregnant women. Porridge beans are a way beans can be made by infusing palm oil and spices to create a perfect meal.

Beans are a safe meal for pregnant women as long as it is made well and not eaten raw or uncooked. Therefore, they are safe but your ingredients must be looked into while making this staple.

 

Does porridge beans cause heartburn in pregnant women?

It is not stated that beans are a source of heartburn among foods that can cause heartburn and indigestion. However, spicy, acidic, fried, and highly fatty meals can contribute to heartburn and indigestion. Therefore, the infusion of oil depending on the person and the spice in foods may contribute to the heartburn usually associated with porridge beans.

 

Also, individual experiences differ and people have different body reactions to various things, due to this, it is not unlikely that certain people may experience indigestion and heartburn with porridge beans. While cooking, it is important to look out for these little bits and pieces that could contribute to heartburn and indigestion in pregnancy.

 

Remedy for heartburn in pregnancy

Here are a few remedies you can try for heartburn in pregnancy.

  1. Try eating smaller and more frequent meals and avoid meals that are citrusy, spicy, or fatty which may trigger an episode of heartburn.
  2. Ensure to drink your liquids between your meals and do not take caffeine or alcohol and fried foods
  3. Maintaining a good posture While eating coupled with relaxation techniques.
  4. You may use over-the-counter medicines and antacids that are safe to use during pregnancy. However, ensure to reach out to your medical practitioner before taking any drugs 

Heartburn in pregnancy can be very uncomfortable however, if you stick to certain remedies you can reduce the uncomfortable feeling. 

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  1. Can I use gestid during pregnancy?

Yes, you can use antacids in pregnancy but do contact your doctor or medical professional before carrying out self-medication.

 

  1. Can I take mist mag for heartburn in pregnancy?

You can use antacids in pregnancy but do contact your doctor or medical professional before carrying out self-medication.

 

  1. Can I take beans during pregnancy?

As long as you realize your body does not react differently to beans, you can take beans during pregnancy. But if you notice any changes please do stop.

 

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