Apple Cider Vinegar For Heartburn During Pregnancy

Heartburn is a common discomfort experienced during pregnancy that causes a burning sensation in the chest. This condition can be exacerbated by certain foods and behaviors. One potential natural remedy that can work is apple cider vinegar for heartburn during pregnancy.

You’ve may have heard of using apple cider vinegar while pregnant for everything from urinary tract infections to morning sickness.

This article will discuss the causes of heartburn during pregnancy, the potential benefits of apple cider vinegar for pregnant women, the efficacy of apple cider vinegar for frequent heartburn during pregnancy, and also how to safely use it as a natural heartburn relief during pregnancy.

You can learn more about our best healthy pregnancy tips to help you have an easy, natural pregnancy experience.

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Causes of Heartburn during Pregnancy

During pregnancy, the hormone progesterone causes the valve that separates the esophagus from the stomach to relax, which can increase the likelihood of acid reflux. This can cause heartburn or a burning sensation in the chest.

Additionally, the growing uterus can also put pressure on the stomach, which can push stomach acid into the esophagus.

Other causes of heartburn during pregnancy:

Eating large meals
Lying down right after eating
Consuming certain foods, such as chocolate, caffeine, and spicy foods can also increase the risk of heartburn during pregnancy.

Read more about pregnancy diet mistakes that can make you uncomfortable while pregnant.

Can Apple Cider Vinegar Help with Heartburn during pregnancy?

There is some limited evidence to suggest that raw apple cider vinegar may help natural remedy heartburn during pregnancy. The acetic acid in apple cider vinegar is thought to help balance the acidity levels in the stomach, which may reduce the likelihood of acid reflux.

However, it is important to note that there are limited scientific studies on the safety and effectiveness of using unfiltered apple cider vinegar for heartburn specifically during pregnancy.

That said apple cider vinegar has been used as a natural remedy for heartburn for many centuries.

Can Pregnant Women Drink Apple Cider Vinegar?

Pregnant women can consume apple cider vinegar in small amounts, such as in a salad dressing or mixed with a glass of water as a drink. Generally, moderate consumption of apple cider vinegar is considered safe during pregnancy. However, it is important to note that consuming large amounts of apple cider vinegar can be harmful and it can interact with certain medications.

A couple of tablespoons a day is considered safe and unlikely to have unwanted side effects.

Check out our list of drinks for pregnancy for more ideas of what you can drink.

Health Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar for Pregnant Women

Apple cider vinegar has several potential health benefits for pregnant women, although more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness. Some of the potential benefits include:

Improved digestion: The acetic acid in apple cider vinegar may help balance the acidity levels in the stomach, which can help relieve symptoms of indigestion and heartburn.
Blood sugar control: Some studies suggest that consuming apple cider vinegar before meals may help lower blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity.
Weight management: Apple cider vinegar may help promote weight management by making you feel full and regulating the amount of food you eat.
Relieving sore throat: It can be one of many natural remedies to relieve sore throat symptoms, gargle with apple cider vinegar mixed with water can help soothe a sore throat.
Boosting energy: Apple cider vinegar contains potassium and enzymes that may help banish fatigue and solve low potassium levels

Learn about what to eat while pregnant here.

How to Safely Use Apple Cider Vinegar for Pregnancy Heartburn

To use apple cider vinegar safely for heartburn during pregnancy, it is important to follow these guidelines:

Use in moderation: Only use small amounts of apple cider vinegar in your diet, such as in a salad dressing or mixed with a cup of water as a drink. Consuming large amounts of apple cider vinegar can be harmful.
Dilute before consuming: Never consume apple cider vinegar straight, always dilute it with water, juice, or any other beverage.
Avoid consuming it before bedtime: Consuming apple cider vinegar before bedtime can cause acid reflux symptoms to worsen and interfere with sleep.
Use organic, pasteurized apple cider vinegar: While vinegar contain the “mother” is the most popular way to consume ACV, consider the pasteurized version while pregnant just to ere on the side of safety.
Consult with a healthcare professional: Before using apple cider vinegar for heartburn during pregnancy, it is important to get professional medical advice to ensure it is safe for you and your growing baby.

If you are wondering how to eat well during pregnancy for the BEST possible outcome, this interview answers many of the common pregnancy nutrition questions Moms have.

Alternative Ways for Avoiding Heartburn During Pregnancy

Here are some tips to help avoid heartburn during pregnancy:

Eat small, frequent meals: Instead of eating three large meals, try eating smaller meals more frequently throughout the day. This can help reduce the amount of stomach acid produced and prevent heartburn.
Avoid certain foods: Certain foods can trigger heartburn, such as spicy food, acidic foods, chocolate, and caffeine. Try avoiding these foods or consuming them in moderation.
Reduce Carb intake: particularly sugar and refined carbs
Drink most of your liquids in between meals: if you do need to drink with a meal, choose lemon water.
Avoid eating before bedtime: Eating close to bedtime can cause acid reflux symptoms to worsen. Try to finish eating at least 2-3 hours before going to bed.
Wear comfortable clothes: Wearing tight clothing can put pressure on the stomach and cause acid reflux. Try wearing loose-fitting clothing, like this maternity dress, to reduce pressure on the stomach.
Sleep in a propped-up position: Sleeping in a propped-up position can help prevent acid from flowing back into the esophagus. Try using extra pillows to prop yourself up while you sleep.
Avoid lying down after eating: Try to stay upright for at least 2-3 hours after eating to allow food to properly digest and reduce the likelihood of acid reflux.
Try relaxation techniques: Stress can cause heartburn, try relaxation techniques such as yoga, deep breathing, or meditation to reduce stress and improve symptoms.

Apple cider vinegar may be helpful for heartburn during pregnancy as it can balance acidity levels in the stomach.

Potential benefits of apple cider vinegar for pregnant women include improved digestion, blood sugar control, weight loss, relieving sore throat, and boosting energy, but more research is still needed to confirm the safety and effectiveness of apple cider vinegar.

Additionally, it is crucial to follow the tips mentioned in this article for the safe use of apple cider vinegar during pregnancy.

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