How to Prevent Pregnancy Bloating

The idea of being pregnant is intense enough without digestive troubles and puffiness. Here's how to mitigate bloating.

Step 1: Lie down Lie down with your feet elevated. Bloating is caused by leakage of fluid from blood vessels and gravity inhibits blood flow to elevated extremities.
TIP: Consult your obstetrician regularly while pregnant. Bloating, also called edema, and sudden weight gain during pregnancy may be a sign of a serious condition called preeclampsia.
Step 2: Wear loose clothes Wear loose clothing. Constrictive clothing will restrict circulation, encouraging bloating.
Step 3: Exercise Exercise regularly. Exercise cuts down on swelling by promoting circulation.
Step 4: Avoid salt and caffeine Avoid salty foods and diuretics, such as caffeine.
Step 5: Drink water Drink eight to 10 glasses of water daily. Water helps your kidneys get rid of excess fluid.
Step 6: Consult doctor Ask your doctor about any herbs you may wish to take to relieve bloating.
TIP: Use safflower oil and eat farm-raised fish a few times a week. It may reduce bloating.
Step 7: Be patient Be patient. It’s temporary – and all for a good cause.
FACT: Fifty percent of pregnant women experience edema, or swelling, during pregnancy, usually peaking during the third trimester.