Hyperemesis Gravidarum is a severe form of nausea and vomiting during pregnancy, possibly leading to severe dehydration, weight loss, heightened fatigue and electrolyte imbalances. It can significantly impact the health and well-being of the pregnant woman, a lot of times, requiring medical intervention.
Many people with HG are informed by their midwives or doctors that there isn't much that can be done to stop or lessen the symptoms. I've observed that HG tends to run in families, our DNA. My mother, aunt and I all experienced pretty harsh sickness and excessive salivation during pregnancy.
Similar to others with this condition, I felt emotionally and physically drained, anxious, and stressed out regarding the health of me and my love child. The journey felt lonely at times and I often resorted to sleeping long hours in order to cope, making it hard to interact with others and complete everyday activities such as working, bathing and cooking.
I spent numerous days and nights in the hospital due to dehydration, vomiting blood, and extreme fatigue. Because of the constant nausea leading to excessive salivation, I felt ashamed to be around friends and at social events, since I had to carry around a bottle to spit in— obviously a little gross, but in this case, completely natural. I constantly resorted to searching online, reading blogs, and joining Facebook groups to find ways to prevent and alleviate the symptoms of hyperemesis gravidarum.
And now here I am….
Pre-Pregnancy Advice
Be mindful of your diet.
A balanced diet is essential for the body to function property during pregnancy. Preparing with supplements prior to conceiving can help prevent or lessen the symptoms of HG when pregnant.
Your liver is important for your body. It helps process hormones, use them well, and remove toxins from your blood, which keeps you cleansed and healthy.
Herbs for liver cleansing: Dandelion root tea has been used to help clear the body of stored negative emotions stored in the liver & kidneys. Burdock root, stinging nettle leaf and cleavers are all great herbs to keep in your medicine cabinet. Ancient Nutrition Liver Detox is also a great option as well.
Your gut health is undeniably vital for your overall well-being and longevity. The intricate ecosystem known as the microbiome encompasses a vast array of billions of bacteria that coexist within and upon us, working symbiotically with various other microorganisms to maintain a delicate balance essential for good health, especially during pregnancy.
List of Gut Healthy Foods:
Fermented food
Bone Broth
Sauerkraut
Kefir
Kombucha
Homemade Organic Live Yogurt
Chicory Root
Flax seeds
Chia seeds
Psyllium Husks
Slippery Elm Powder
Raw Apple Cider Vinegar
Develop a spiritual hygiene regimen.
If you are stressed, this takes an overall toll on your mind, body and sprit. You must do what you can to reduce stress levels. It is necessary to remember ways to tap in with yourself spiritually so you can make it through the hard moments of HG.
Journal about your experience: Journaling is great for bringing logic to your emotions, especially when you need further assistance with communicating with your partner.
Gather necessary herbs and supplements.
Invest in birth support- hire a birth companion.
Explore an exercise routine.
Add acupuncture and pelvic bodywork to your modality list.
B Vitamins
Vitamin B6, taken in its active form, pyridoxal-5-phosphate or P-5-P, has been said to reduce pregnancy-related nausea and vomiting. B6 is important for your overall cellular function. It helps your body make various chemicals that transmit signals between nerve cells. These chemicals, like serotonin, adrenaline, and dopamine, are vital for a healthy body and brain development. The vitamin comes in capsule form, and also found naturally in some of the foods we eat. It is known to help balance progesterone levels. I recommend choosing the foods your stomach is able to handle.
Food sources of B6 include: wild caught salmon, sweet potatoes, avocado, spinach, papaya, bananas, and carrots.
Magnesium
Let's uncover why magnesium is the secret weapon you need during these precious 9 months! Magnesium is like a superhero mineral. It's a multitasker- supporting various bodily functions, bringing a lot of bountiful perks such as:
Assists in alleviating leg cramps and restless legs
Helps to soothe lower back, hip and round ligament pains
Provides relief by reducing nausea and vomiting
Facilitates better sleep patterns
Additionally, aides in relieving head and neck tension for overall comfort and well-being
