Heartburn during pregnancy: Avoid these foods to stay healthy

Are you pregnant and experiencing heartburn? You’re not alone. Indigestion, acid reflux and heartburn are common pregnancy symptoms.

---

The good news is that despite these symptoms being uncomfortable, they do not flag any danger to you or your baby. While they often get grouped together (or confused), heartburn is a symptom of acid reflux. In the early stages of pregnancy, acid reflux and heartburn are normally caused by the increase in hormone levels, especially estrogen.

By the second trimester, acid reflux and heartburn are usually the result of the uterus enlarging, especially after about the 20th week, pushing the stomach up against the diaphragm, condensing stomach contents and moving them up the oesophagus. Third trimester heartburn is the most commonly reported by pregnant women due to the size and weight of baby.

An old wives’ tale claims that heartburn during pregnancy is an indication that your baby has lots of hair – although there’s little evidence to support this theory.

Thankfully, with a few modifications to your diet, acid reflux and heartburn can be avoided or minimised.

What are the foods that cause heartburn during pregnancy?

---

Heartburn is often described as a ‘burning’, uncomfortable and sometimes painful sensation in the chest or stomach. It’s common for heartburn to rear its head after eating or drinking.

During pregnancy, the general rule is to eat half the amount, twice as often. Not only will this help manage nausea often experienced during the 1st trimester (hello morning sickness), it will minimize the chances of acid reflux and heartburn.

Here are the foods that cause heartburn during pregnancy…

---

Citrus Foods

---

Avoid oranges, grapefruits, lemon and tomatoes. Citrus foods are known to bring on that burning sensation after meals.

Tip:  Try low-acid orange juice with breakfast, and tomatoes in sandwiches or with crackers, as opposed to in salads.

---

Coffee and Soda 

---

Caffeine should generally be avoided (or minimised) during pregnancy. It’s also a known heartburn trigger.

Tip: Try eating something before drinking caffeinated beverages or soda, lining your stomach. You can also always opt for decaffeinated bevvys!

Alcohol

---

You probably already know this: alcohol is not recommended during pregnancy.

Tip: Don’t drink alcohol while you’re pregnant – and see if your partner is willing to join you in solidarity ;)!

Fatty foods 

---

Fried and fatty foods take longer for your body to break down and digest and so can bring on heartburn.

Tip: Bake or grill instead of fry, and opt for leaner cuts of meat and low-fat dairy products.

Chocolate

---

Yes. Every pregnant woman in the history of humans has craved chocolate. But be warned: chocolate is an acid reflux and heartburn trigger. (Enter at your own peril!)

Tip: Only eat chocolate after you’ve had a meal (i.e., not on an empty stomach). And try and limit your intake to a few squares or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. It’s only nine months, ladies. This too shall pass.

Frequently asked questions

---

1. What foods commonly cause heartburn during pregnancy?

Common culprits for heartburn during pregnancy include spicy foods, citrus fruits, tomatoes, chocolate, and caffeinated beverages.

2. How can I manage heartburn through diet?

To proactively manage heartburn during pregnancy, eat smaller, more frequent meals, avoid trigger foods, and avoid lying down immediately after eating.

3. Are there safe remedies for heartburn during pregnancy?

Safe remedies to treat heartburn during pregnancy include chewing gum to increase saliva, drinking milk, and taking antacids that are safe during pregnancy.

4. How can I prevent heartburn while pregnant?

Prevent heartburn by avoiding large meals, eating slowly, and wearing loose-fitting clothing.

Sources

---

Pregnancy, Birth & Baby, Indigestion and heartburn in pregnancy, September 2022.

Related Articles

---

10 foods you should eat during pregnancy
Foods you should avoid during pregnancy
Best vitamins for pregnancy