I was so excited to hear about the Royal pregnancy…..still guessing? Kate is expecting and all the fans of the royal family are eagerly expecting a royal baby in 2013. But it seems that the Duchess is hospitalized due to hyperemesis gravidarum- a severe case of morning sickness.

Generally morning sickness affects more than half of all the pregnant women. It usually occurs in the early hours of the morning time and hence the name. But to be more practical it can occur at any time of the day. Morning sickness may stop around the 12^th week of pregnancy.

The reason for this condition may be because hCG hormone and estrogen hormone increase rapidly during early pregnancy. Morning sickness is actually good because it is an evolved trait and protects the fetus against the toxins ingested by the mother. The other interesting news is excessive morning sickness signals the possibility of twins. On a lighter vein can we expect double bundles of joy for the Duchess?

Severe morning sickness causes dehydration, weight loss and loss of essential nutrients from the body. A research study points out hyperemesis gravidarum could be genetic. This condition affects 1% of all pregnancies. If there is excessive vomiting it would be very wise and helpful that you visit your doctor or health care provider immediately.

Recommended foods

 The key to healthy pregnancy is drinking lots of water. You can take several sips between meals. Empty stomach may induce vomiting sensation, so the best way out is to eat small frequent meals and healthy snacks. With all possibility avoid spicy and greasy foods.

Include bland foods such as chicken soup, broth and plain baked potato. You can also eat sandwiches with raw veggies but they should be hygienically prepared. Include stomach friendly foods such as yogurt, low fat and high carbohydrate foods.

Ginger is very efficient in controlling nausea. Add some freshly grated ginger to your tea and have a hot cup of ginger tea. Try ginger candies and crystalline ginger. You can carry a slice of lemon, mint or grated ginger root in your purse. But take care not to exceed 1000 mg of ginger a day. If slightly confused ask your gynecologist about this.

It is found that vitamin B6 eases nausea in some women. The recommended amount is 25mg per day. Then again your doctor is the best person to advice about these. You can eat healthy snacks such as crackers, jell-o, flavored Popsicles and pretzels.

Remember pregnancy is the most precious and blessed time in a woman’s life. Surround yourself with nature, beautiful music and all things favorite and enjoy each moment of it!

Take care,

Swarnam

Photo courtesy of Google images