Third Trimester Troubles: 14 Foods To Avoid to Prevent Gas In The Last Stages Of Pregnancy

The third trimester of pregnancy is typically riddled with discomfort as the body changes rapidly with the growing baby and as the body prepares for childbirth. One common issue many expectant mothers face during this time is increased gas and bloating. This is caused by increased levels of progesterone which relaxes muscles and slows down digestion. Furthermore, as the growing uterus exerts more pressure on the digestive organs, it can also cause excess gas to build up. Certain foods are known to exacerbate this issue by producing more gas during digestion. Here are 14 foods you might want to avoid during the third trimester of pregnancy to reduce gas and decrease digestive discomfort.

Beans 

Beans are a nutritious food rich in fiber and protein, making them a staple in many diets. However, they can cause a lot of gas and bloating pain during the third trimester of pregnancy. Beans contain oligosaccharides, a type of complex carbohydrate that is difficult for the body to break down. These carbohydrates pass through the stomach and small intestine undigested until they reach the colon, where bacteria ferment them which produces gas. This fermentation can lead to discomfort and bloating, which can be quite painful and uncomfortable during the later stages of pregnancy. 

Lentils 

Lentils are another high-fiber legume that can cause digestive issues during the third trimester of pregnancy. Like beans, lentils contain complex carbohydrates that are not easily digested and can ferment in the gut, leading to gas production. While lentils are an excellent source of protein and nutrients, it might be best to avoid them during the last trimester of pregnancy to avoid gas and bloating.

Broccoli 

Broccoli is a highly nutritious vegetable, packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber but is also notorious for causing gas. Broccoli contains raffinose, a complex sugar that the human body struggles to digest fully. When raffinose reaches the large intestine, it is fermented by bacteria, resulting in gas production which can lead to bloating and discomfort. If you are suffering from gassiness or bloating, limit your intake of broccoli to help alleviate discomfort. 

Cauliflower  

Cauliflower, another cruciferous vegetable, shares many of the same gas-producing characteristics as broccoli. It contains raffinose and other complex carbohydrates that can be difficult to digest. When these carbohydrates reach the colon, they are fermented by bacteria, leading to the production of gas. To help reduce its gas-inducing properties, try roasing or steaming cauliflower before eating. 

Cabbage 

Cabbage is another cruciferous vegetable that can cause gas due to its raffinose content. Additionally, cabbage is high in fiber, which, while beneficial for digestion, can also contribute to gas if consumed in large quantities. During the third trimester of pregnancy, when the digestive system is already under pressure, the gas and bloating caused by cabbage can be a nuisance. To reduce gas caused by cabbage, cook it thoroughly before eating. 

Brussels Sprouts 

Brussels sprouts, like other cruciferous vegetables, are high in fiber and raffinose, both of which can contribute to gas production. To minimize gas and bloating, pregnant women might want to limit their intake of Brussels sprouts during the third trimester.

Onions        

Most recipes call for onions due to the addition of flavor you get from onions. However, they can also cause digestive issues, particularly due to its fructans content. To combat this, only consume onions if it’s cooked during the third trimester of your pregnancy. If it still causes gas, you may want to eliminate it completely for the time being. 

Garlic 

Like onions, garlic is high in fructans, which can lead to gas and bloating. To minimize gas, women in the third trimester of pregnancy might consider using garlic-infused oils instead of using raw garlic, or cooking garlic thoroughly when cooking. 

Dairy Products 

Dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt are amazing sources of calcium and protein, but they can also cause gas and bloating, especially if you are lactose intolerant. Lactose intolerance occurs when the body lacks sufficient lactase, the enzyme needed to digest lactose, the sugar found in dairy products. When lactose is not properly digested, it ferments in the colon, leading to gas production and discomfort. This can be particularly problematic during the third trimester of pregnancy when digestive issues are more prevalent. If you are experiencing gas pains after consuming dairy, consider lactose-free alternatives or dairy substitutes such as almond or soy milk. 

Carbonated Beverages 

Carbonated beverages, including soda and sparkling water, can lead to gas buildup in the digestive system. The bubbles in these drinks are composed of carbon dioxide, which can accumulate in the stomach and intestines, causing bloating and discomfort, which is especially troublesome during the third trimester of pregnancy when the digestive system is already under pressure from the growing uterus. To mitigate this, limit your intake of carbonated drinks and opt for still water or herbal teas instead. 

Fried Foods 

Fried foods are often high in fat, which can slow down the digestive process and cause gas and bloating. High-fat foods take longer to digest, which means they stay in the stomach and intestines for a prolonged period. This can lead to the production of gas as the food ferments in the digestive tract. During the third trimester of pregnancy, consuming fried foods can exacerbate discomfort caused by gas. Pregnant women might find it helpful to avoid fried foods and instead opt for other cooking methods such as baking, grilling, or steaming.

Apples 

Apples are nutritious, high in fiber, and vitamin C, but did you know they can also cause gas and bloating due to their high fructose content? Fructose is a type of sugar that can be difficult for some people to digest, and because progesterone causes digestion to slow down, eating food high in fructose can lead to fermentation and gas production in the large intestine. To avoid this, eat smaller portions of food containing fructose.

Pears 

Pears are another fruit that can cause gas and bloating due to their high fructose content. Additionally, the fiber in pears can be challenging for the digestive system to break down fully, especially if consumed in large quantities. To reduce the likelihood of gas, consider eating smaller portions.

Watermelon 

During the summer, eating watermelon can be quite refreshing, but because of its fructose content, it might be a reason why pregnant women in their third trimester feel bloated or gassy. To minimize gas, remember to eat watermelon in moderation – even if you really want to eat the whole fruit! This can save you from a lot of digestive pains.

Planning A Relaxing Baby Moon: 17 Essential Tips To Make Your Baby Moon Unforgettable 

Nowadays, many expectant parents go on ‘babymoons’ before they welcome their bundle of joy. A babymoon—an escape for couples who are expecting a baby—is a fantastic way to connect, relax, and revel in the anticipation of your growing family. However, traveling while pregnant comes with its own set of considerations to ensure both the safety and comfort of the mother-to-be and the unborn child. Whether you’re planning a tranquil beach getaway, a serene countryside retreat, or a culturally rich city escape, these tips will help you fully prepare for an enjoyable and safe trip.

Planning A Relaxing Baby Moon: 17 Essential Tips To Make Your Baby Moon Unforgettable

Beat the Heat: 17 Useful Hacks for Surviving Summer Pregnancy 

Pregnancy can joyous, but it can also be tiring to grow a baby, and it often much more difficult as the weather heats up. High temperatures and increased humidity can make anyone feel uncomfortable, but for pregnant women, the summer heat can intensify common pregnancy discomforts such as swelling and dehydration. However, with the right strategies and adjustments, you can beat the heat and enjoy a more comfortable pregnancy even during the hottest days. Here are 17 tips to make pregnancy manageable in warmer months.

Beat the Heat: 17 Useful Hacks for Surviving Summer Pregnancy