Beating Morning Sickness

Although pregnancy is a joyous process, morning sickness can put a damper on it.  The good news is that morning sickness usually occurs during the first trimester and disappears during the second trimester.  However, for some women morning sickness can last through most of the pregnancy.  Here are a few tips to prevent or reduce nausea during pregnancy:

• Before getting out of bed in the morning, eat a few crackers.

• Get up slowly in the morning and sit on the side of the bed for a few moments before standing up.

• Eat six to eight small meals during the day.  Do not go for long periods of time without food.  Try to eat foods that are high in protein such as milk, cheese, and nuts.

• Avoid unpleasant smells.  When you cook, open windows or use the exhaust fan to get rid of odors.

• If nausea is severe, avoid drinking citrus juice, coffee, or tea.  Calm your stomach with ginger ale.