Heartburn is a common problem experienced by pregnant women, especially in the later months of pregnancy. It is usually caused by acid reflux , or the backflow of excess stomach acid into the esophagus. A question that is often asked is: “Can breast milk help with heartburn?”
In this article, we will discuss how drinking milk during pregnancy helps relieve stomach aches, as well as other ways to prevent or treat this discomfort.
How Does Pregnant Milk Help with Constipation?
1. Neutralizing Stomach Acid
Breast milk has an alkaline effect , which helps neutralize stomach acid . When the stomach has too much acid, it can build up and cause heartburn or indigestion . Drinking breast milk can help temporarily relieve the burning sensation and discomfort in the stomach.
Note: The effect of milk is temporary and does not cure the cause of acid reflux, but it is a quick solution for pregnant women looking for immediate relief.
2. Coating the Stomach Lining
Besides neutralizing the acid, milk provides a protective coating to the stomach lining. This protection reduces stomach irritation, thus helping to prevent acid reflux and the feeling of heartburn .
3. Calcium and Magnesium for Digestion
Breast milk is rich in calcium and magnesium , minerals that are important for improving digestion. Calcium helps reduce stomach acid, so it helps relieve heartburn .
4. Relaxation and Comfort in Drinking Milk
Aside from its nutrients, drinking milk before bed or when feeling uncomfortable becomes part of the comforting ritual of pregnant women. Having a regular ritual of drinking milk helps calm the body, causing the digestive system to relax.
Could Milk Be Even More Harmful to the Stomach?
Although breast milk can help relieve stomach upset, there are a few things to consider:
1. High Fat Content of Milk
Full -fat milk or high-fat milk can worsen heartburn in some pregnant women. The fat in milk can weaken the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) , the muscle that acts as a barrier between the stomach and esophagus. When the LES relaxes, it’s easier for stomach acid to come back up, causing heartburn.
2. Lactose Intolerance
If you have lactose intolerance , regular milk can cause bloating, gas, and other digestive discomfort. If you experience these symptoms, you may want to try lactose-free milk or plant-based milk alternatives like soy milk or almond milk .
Other Ways to Prevent or Treat Heartburn During Pregnancy
If milk is not effective or if you want to try other solutions, here are tips you can follow:
1. Eat Small Meals Throughout the Day
Instead of eating large meals, try eating smaller portions throughout the day. This will help prevent excess pressure on the stomach, thus reducing the chance of acid reflux.
2. Avoid Trigger Foods
Avoid foods known to aggravate heartburn, such as spicy foods , citrus , and chocolate . These foods can increase stomach acid and cause heartburn .
3. Drink Water Between Meals
Avoid drinking a lot of fluids while eating. Drink water between meals to avoid overwhelming the stomach and preventing reflux.
4. Avoid Bathing or Lying Down Immediately After Eating
Lying down after eating can increase acid. Try to stay standing or sitting for an hour after eating.
Conclusion
Breast milk may provide temporary relief from heartburn due to nutrients like calcium and magnesium . However, the effect of milk is only temporary and does not cure the cause of acid reflux. If you are lactose intolerant , you can try lactose-free or plant-based alternatives .
If the problem with stomach bloating persists , consult your healthcare provider to help you find a more permanent solution.
Republished with permission from theAsianParent Philippines
