Q: Since becoming pregnant (now four months along), I've felt nauseous all day. Eating is painful and difficult. I mostly manage crackers with lukewarm tea during the day, eating a bit more in the evenings. Can anything help? Will this harm my baby?
Dietitian Lenny Versteegden: Morning sickness is common in the first trimester and typically eases by week 13 or 14, though it may linger for some. By four months, you should still meet your nutritional needs despite the nausea.
Don't worry immediately—an unborn baby is resilient and rarely becomes deficient. However, if you continue losing significant weight, consult a dietitian or GP promptly. Staying healthy matters: your baby draws nutrients from you, and you need strength too. Focus on nutritious foods you can tolerate.
Proven Nutrition Tips (drawn from my own pregnancy experiences with morning sickness):
• Eat or drink something before rising, like a biscuit and weak tea.
• Rise slowly and gently.
• Have small meals up to six times daily. Prioritize healthy choices like fruit and whole grains for vitamins and minerals.
• Supplement with a prenatal vitamin-mineral formula; extra vitamin D is advised. Check with a dietitian, GP, or pharmacist.
• A fresh mouth helps combat nausea—try fresh fruit, juice, gum, or sour candies.
• Steer clear of strong odors, like coffee.
• If hot foods trigger nausea, opt for cold alternatives like pasta-vegetable salads or extra sandwiches.
Source: Archive | Image: Shutterstock
