My Pregnancy Digestive Rescue

Pregnancy brings unexpected and unwelcome changes to your body.

For me, one of the most surprising and persistent issues that popped up during my second trimester was digestive problems, specifically constipation. And when I say "problems," I mean serious problems. This was completely new territory for me, pre-pregnancy, my digestion was usually pretty reliable. I tried all the usual advice: drinking more water, upping my fiber intake through fruits and vegetables, but nothing seemed to really make a difference.

I was feeling uncomfortable!!!

Then, a friend suggested something so simple, I almost dismissed it: dried prunes. Now, I'll admit, prunes weren't exactly a staple in my diet before this. But at that point, I was willing to try anything.

The method was simple, effective, and surprisingly delicious: I'd take about five dried prunes, add them to a blender with about 500 ml of water, and blend until it was a smooth, drinkable mixture. I'd then pour myself a cup of this "prune smoothie" and drink it. Within a day or two of starting this routine, I noticed a dramatic improvement. The discomfort began to ease, and my digestion started to become as it used to.

So, why are these little fruits such a powerhouse for digestive relief, especially during pregnancy?

Prunes are essentially dried plums, and they pack a punch that goes beyond just helping you "go." Here's why they're so good for you, particularly when you're expecting:

• Prunes are incredibly rich in dietary fiber, specifically both soluble and insoluble fiber.

  • Insoluble fiber adds bulk to your stool, helping it move more quickly through your digestive tract.

  • Soluble fiber absorbs water and forms a gel-like substance, which softens the stool, making it easier to pass.

• Prunes naturally contain sorbitol, a sugar alcohol that has a mild laxative effect. Sorbitol isn't fully absorbed by the body, so it draws water into the colon, which helps to soften stool and stimulate bowel movements.

• Prunes are loaded with antioxidants, like phenolic compounds, which help protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals. This is beneficial for overall health, including supporting a healthy pregnancy.

• These dried fruits are a good source of potassium, an essential electrolyte that plays a role in fluid balance, nerve signals, and muscle contractions, especially when your blood volume increases during pregnancy.

• While not a primary source of iron, the vitamin C found in prunes can actually help your body absorb iron more efficiently from other foods. Iron is crucial during pregnancy to prevent anemia.

• Despite their sweetness, prunes have a relatively low glycemic index, thanks to their fiber content. This means they release sugar into your bloodstream slowly, which can help prevent blood sugar spikes.

For me, this simple prune smoothie was a game-changer throughout the rest of my pregnancy. It was a natural, gentle, and effective way to manage a really uncomfortable symptom.

Of course, always chat with your healthcare provider/doctor about any new remedies you're trying during pregnancy!!!