Finding Relief: Chewing Gum For Heartburn During Pregnancy

Pregnancy is a miraculous journey filled with joy and anticipation, but it also brings along a myriad of changes, including some less pleasant ones. One common discomfort many expectant mothers face is heartburn. As the body undergoes hormonal shifts and the uterus expands, it can lead to increased pressure on the stomach, causing acid reflux and that burning sensation known as heartburn.

Seeking relief for heartburn during pregnancy is essential to ensure the comfort and well-being of both the mother and the growing baby. While there are several remedies available, one surprisingly simple and accessible option is chewing gum.

The Ingredients

Chewing gum typically consists of various components such as a gum base, sweeteners, flavourings, and sometimes additional additives like preservatives or softeners. In the case of managing heartburn during pregnancy, opting for sugar-free gum is advisable to avoid unnecessary sugar intake, which could potentially exacerbate heartburn symptoms. Additionally, natural sweetener-based gums offer a safer alternative for expectant mothers.

Benefits Of Chewing Gum For Heartburn During Pregnancy

Chewing gum serves as a surprisingly effective remedy for alleviating heartburn during pregnancy due to its several benefits:

1. Increased Saliva Production: The act of chewing stimulates saliva production, which serves as a natural neutraliser for stomach acid. The alkaline nature of saliva helps counteract the acidic content causing heartburn, providing temporary relief.
2. Swallowing Action: Constant swallowing while chewing gum aids in pushing stomach acid back down into the stomach, preventing it from lingering in the oesophagus and reducing discomfort.
3. Improved Digestion: Chewing gum post-meals aids in the production of digestive enzymes, facilitating better digestion and reducing the likelihood of excessive stomach acid build-up, which is a common trigger for heartburn.

Studies have shown that chewing on a piece or two of gum helps to force fluids back into the stomach and flood the oesophagus with alkaline saliva, neutralizing acids that cause heartburn. Research has shown that chewing gum can reduce nausea which is a fantastic added benefit.

Chewing gum can help to reduce food cravings if you are worried about putting on too much pregnancy weight. Chewing gum is easily accessible at most grocery stores, it is cost effective and easy to keep in your purse for when you need it. This makes it a fantastic thing to keep on hand when you are pregnant.

Is Chewing Gum Safe During Pregnancy?

Chewing gum is not a natural product and is manufactured artificially which means you do need to be careful and take note of a few important things.

As a general rule chewing the odd stick of gum is not going to be a problem, but it is advised to keep it in moderation. It is also advised to check with your doctor before chewing gum during pregnancy.

Here some things to consider before choosing to chew gum during pregnancy:

1. Gums that are artificially sweetened and flavoured can lead to dental issues which can be very unpleasant during pregnancy, as well as cause complications.
2. While you are pregnant it is advised to avoid gums that have saccharine and sorbitol in them.
3. Make sure not to chew any gum if you have elevated sugar levels brought on by pregnancy-induced diabetes.
4. If your body is insulin resistant make sure not to chew any gum during pregnancy.

The Side Effects

While generally safe, there are a few potential side effects associated with chewing gum, particularly during pregnancy:

1. Jaw Discomfort: Excessive chewing may lead to jaw discomfort or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) issues, especially in individuals not accustomed to prolonged chewing.
2. Increased Gas: Swallowing air while chewing gum can lead to increased gas and bloating, which might exacerbate existing discomforts associated with pregnancy.
3. Potential Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may be allergic to specific ingredients present in chewing gum, leading to allergic reactions.

Tips for Using Chewing Gum to Manage Heartburn

While chewing gum can be beneficial for managing heartburn during pregnancy, it’s essential to keep a few things in mind:

1. Opt for Sugar-Free Gum: To avoid unnecessary sugar intake, choose sugar-free or natural sweetener-based gums. Excessive sugar consumption can potentially exacerbate heartburn symptoms.
2. Chew Gum After Meals: Chewing gum immediately after meals can help prevent heartburn by aiding digestion. However, avoid mint-flavoured gum, as it might relax the lower oesophageal sphincter, potentially worsening heartburn.
3. Moderation is Key: Don’t overdo it. Excessive chewing can lead to jaw discomfort or exacerbate symptoms if you’re sensitive to increased saliva production.
4. Consult Your Healthcare Provider: Always consult your healthcare provider before trying any remedy, including chewing gum, especially if you have any pre-existing conditions or concerns about its effects during pregnancy.

Chewing gum, with its ability to stimulate saliva production, aid digestion, and help mitigate heartburn symptoms, can be a convenient and accessible option for expectant mothers seeking relief during pregnancy. However, it’s crucial to exercise moderation and opt for sugar-free or natural sweetener-based options while being mindful of potential side effects.

Always prioritise communication with your healthcare provider before incorporating any remedy, including chewing gum, during pregnancy. While it may offer relief for some, individual responses vary, and seeking professional guidance ensures a safer and more tailored approach to managing heartburn during this special phase of life.