Pregnancy is a memorable time for every woman. However, it’s not always a bed of roses. One of the most common symptoms of pregnancy is nausea. It affects 70%-85% of women during their first trimester.

Although it is commonly known as ‘morning sickness’, it can occur at any time of the day, and for some women, it can last throughout their entire pregnancy. Nausea is normal and a sign of a healthy pregnancy, but it can be incredibly uncomfortable and challenging to manage.

What causes pregnancy-induced nausea?

The root of pregnancy-induced nausea still remains unknown. However, it is believed that the sudden hormonal changes a woman’s body undergoes during pregnancy is the leading cause of morning sickness.

The hormone Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG) is believed to be the culprit for nausea, as its levels in the body increases significantly during the early stages of pregnancy.

Progesterone, another hormone that increases during pregnancy, also contributes to nausea as it causes relaxation of the digestive tract muscles, resulting in the slow movement of food through the digestive system, leading to constipation, and eventually nausea.

Managing Pregnancy Nausea with Probiotics

Probiotics are live microorganisms that are beneficial to the body, particularly the digestive system. Many studies show that probiotics can help alleviate digestive disorders such as constipation, diarrhea, and irritable bowel syndrome.

But can probiotics help manage pregnancy-induced nausea?.

How do Probiotics help in managing pregnancy nausea?

Probiotics, especially Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium strains, have been proven to have direct anti-inflammatory effects, promoting better gut health. As such, they can help alleviate nausea and other digestive distress experienced during pregnancy.

They do this in two ways:.

1. Regulating the Gut Microflora

The gut is home to millions of bacteria that serve a variety of functions, including aiding digestion and protecting against harmful pathogens. Some bacteria are known to be beneficial to our health, while others are not.

An imbalance in the gut microbiome, where harmful bacteria overpopulate the good ones, can trigger an immune response, increasing inflammation throughout the body. This inflammation can worsen morning sickness symptoms. Probiotics, when taken in controlled amounts, can help restore balance by promoting the growth of good bacteria that can help regulate digestion, decrease inflammation and in turn, reduce nausea.

2. Decreasing Intestinal Inflammation

Inflammation in the intestines can lead to nausea and vomiting, which are common symptoms of pregnancy-induced nausea. Probiotics help reduce inflammation in the digestive tract by stimulating the immune system’s response to infection and damage.

The Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium strains of probiotics can also produce bacteriocin, a protein that can help fight harmful pathogenic bacteria that can cause inflammation. By reducing inflammation, probiotics can help manage pregnancy-induced nausea symptoms.

What Type of Probiotics are Best for Managing Pregnancy Nausea?

Not all strains of probiotics are created equal. Some strains of probiotics are specifically targeted towards certain health concerns. When it comes to managing pregnancy nausea, these are some of the strains that are most effective:.

1. Lactobacillus acidophilus

This strain of probiotic is one of the most common ones and is found naturally in the intestines and the vagina. It helps to repopulate the gut with good bacteria that aid digestion and reduce inflammation in the digestive tract.

2. Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG

This probiotic strain has been shown to decrease gastrointestinal inflammation and reduce symptoms of bloating in pregnant women.

3. Bifidobacterium bifidum

This probiotic strain can help regulate the gut microbiome and prevent constipation, a common trigger of nausea in pregnant women.

4. Streptococcus thermophilus

This probiotic strain helps to break down lactose (milk sugar), which can help alleviate any nausea caused by the consumption of dairy products.

Conclusion

Nausea during pregnancy is an inevitable part of the process, and no single remedy will work for everyone. However, probiotics are a natural and safe way to help manage pregnancy-induced nausea.

Probiotics can help regulate gut flora, decrease inflammation in the digestive tract, and alleviate constipation, all of which can lead to a decrease in morning sickness symptoms. Before taking any form of probiotic supplement, consult with your doctor to ensure that the product is safe for you and your baby.