New Delhi, October 18 (Daily Kiran): Pregnancy is one of the most special and sensitive phases in a woman’s life. During this period, the body undergoes major physical and emotional changes. These hormonal fluctuations often cause discomforts such as bloating, gas, indigestion, and restlessness — though normal, they can be quite bothersome.
Both modern medical science and Ayurveda recognize that digestive problems are common during pregnancy. From a scientific perspective, the main reason is the increase in the hormone progesterone. During pregnancy, high progesterone levels relax the body’s muscles, including those in the digestive tract. This slows down digestion, causing food to remain longer in the stomach — leading to gas formation and a feeling of heaviness.
According to Ayurveda, these issues are primarily caused by an imbalance of the Vata dosha. When Vata increases, it creates dryness and air in the body, leading to gas, bloating, and constipation. Skipping meals or irregular eating further aggravates this imbalance, worsening symptoms.
The growing uterus also puts pressure on the intestines, making it harder for gas to escape, which leads to abdominal discomfort and even mild breathing difficulty in some cases. Reduced physical activity during pregnancy can further slow down digestion.
Sudden dietary changes can also contribute to the problem. Many women switch to a “healthy diet” high in fiber — such as whole grains, fruits, and vegetables — after becoming pregnant. While beneficial, a sudden increase in fiber without sufficient water intake can lead to gas buildup.
Medically, swallowing air while eating — especially when eating too fast or talking during meals — is another common cause. This is why doctors recommend eating slowly and mindfully, a practice also emphasized in Ayurveda.
Both Ayurveda and modern medicine suggest safe and natural remedies for pregnant women. Ayurveda recommends consuming fennel (saunf), carom seeds (ajwain), and asafoetida (hing) with lukewarm water to aid digestion and reduce bloating.
From a scientific standpoint, eating smaller, lighter meals multiple times a day instead of heavy meals helps prevent digestive strain and gas formation. Staying hydrated and engaging in light physical activity like walking can also support better digestion.
My name is Bhupendra Singh Chundawat. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
