Monday, September 9, 2013
Nausea during the first trimester is generally referred to as morning sickness, despite the chronological misnomer. As inconvenient and unwelcome as it is, morning sickness does usually go away just as quickly as it appears. The key to dealing with the hassle, is to consume foods and drinks separately and to consume as soon as the nausea dissipates. It's important to keep in mind that women who experience morning sickness can lose energy, protein, vitamins, and minerals and need to make sure that their electrolytes are balanced properly. If severe enough, encourage Mom to allow herself to be hospitalized, where they can help to rehydrate and prevent any further complications, such as ketosis.
Having Mom avoid triggers (smells, tastes, etc. that cause nausea to return) also helps. Often, the most tolerable foods are considered to be the old-fashioned BRAT diet (bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast) or other foods that have little to no fat and high amounts of easily-digestible carbohydrates. If Mom consumes small, dry meals and drinks between meals, she is also less likely to experience severe nausea or vomiting. There is no cure for morning sickness, but rest assured that whatever makes Mom feel best, is what she should do. Simply remind her that it will go away soon and it will be very worth it!