New Delhi, October 18 (IANS). Pregnancy is a very special and sensitive time in every woman’s life. During this period, many changes take place in the body, which affect the woman not only emotionally but also physically. At the time of pregnancy, there are huge fluctuations in hormonal levels, due to which some uncomfortable situations also arise, which, although normal, are very disturbing. One of these is flatulence, gas formation, indigestion and constant feeling of restlessness.
If seen from the perspective of both modern science and Ayurveda, problems related to the digestive system are very common in pregnant women. From a scientific point of view, the biggest reason for this is the increase in the hormone progesterone. During pregnancy, this hormone is produced in large quantities in the body, which loosens the muscles, including the muscles of the digestive system. When digestion slows down, food remains in the stomach for a long time, which causes gas formation and the stomach feels heavy.
According to Ayurveda, imbalance of Vata dosha during pregnancy is the main reason for these problems. If Vata dosha increases, it brings gas and dryness in the body, which can increase problems like constipation, flatulence and burning sensation. Especially if there is a disturbance in the diet or the woman remains without eating for a long time, this defect can increase further.
The growing uterus of a pregnant woman also puts pressure on the intestines, which makes it difficult for gas to pass out and it gets accumulated in the stomach. Sometimes this pressure becomes so high that even breathing feels a little difficult. Apart from this, the physical activity of women decreases during pregnancy, which further weakens the digestive system.
Sudden changes in diet also promote this problem. Many times, after becoming pregnant, women shift to a healthy diet, which is high in fiber, such as whole grains, fruits and vegetables. Although these things are beneficial, consuming them suddenly and in large quantities can lead to gas formation in the stomach, especially if adequate amounts of water are not being consumed.
According to science, swallowing air while eating is also a common reason. When we eat quickly or talk while eating, air inadvertently enters the stomach through the mouth, which causes gas and flatulence. This is why doctors often recommend eating slowly and Ayurveda also gives this advice.
Now if we talk about treatment, both the approaches, Ayurveda and Allopathy, give preference to safe and natural remedies for pregnant women. In Ayurveda, fennel, celery and asafoetida are considered panacea for digestion. Consuming them with lukewarm water reduces gas and keeps the stomach clean. Science says that one should avoid eating too much food at one go. Eating light and easily digestible food several times a day does not put pressure on digestion and also reduces the possibility of gas formation.
–IANS
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