Bland Diets for Pregnancy

A bland diet during pregnancy helps overcome the symptoms of morning sickness and stomach irritation. The diet consists of foods that are low acid producers, such as are soft, low in fiber and lightly spiced foods. Since each woman reacts differently to symptoms, trial and error may be needed to eliminate irritating foods.

  1. Purpose

    • Morning sickness is the main reason a pregnant woman would want to eat a bland diet. Morning sickness is a condition in early pregnancy where some women have periods of nausea and vomiting. The exact cause is not certain; however, the increase in hCG and estrogen hormone levels may be a contributor. According to babycenter.com, approximately three quarters of pregnant women experience symptoms of morning sickness in the first trimester. A bland diet is easy on the stomach as it reduces the amount of acidic secretions and is less irritating on the stomach lining.

    Recommended Foods

    • Eating small and frequent meals is gentler on the stomach and keeps the stomach feeling full. According to healthforums.com, doctors believe that a stomach with food in it will protect it against acid production.

      Dairy products that are gentle on the stomach include cottage cheese and yogurt. Fruits and vegetables that are recommended are cooked green beans and carrots, and natural or no sugar apple sauce. Try mild and low spice broth based soups along with saltine crackers to satisfy hunger. Some women prefer carbohydrates and find that plain white rice, cooked pasta or cream of wheat cereal is easy to digest.

      It is important to drink plenty of fluids, especially while pregnant. Water is the best choice for a bland diet. A pregnant woman should drink at least eight 8-ounce glasses of water a day. A good strategy is to drink small amounts throughout the day to allow room in the stomach for food as nutrients are important during pregnancy.

    Foods to Avoid

    • Fatty foods and food cooked in oil will irritate the stomach and should not be included in a bland diet. This includes deep fried foods, high-fat meats, snack chips, high-fat dairy products and chocolate. Sour and spicy foods increase secretions and should be avoided. This includes citrus fruits, tomatoes, hot peppers and heavily spiced foods. High gas foods are not recommended in a bland diet and include broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage and onions.

      Avoid coffee, soda and other sugary drinks, alcohol and citrus drinks. Some women find that coffee helps soothe the stomach. If this is the case, do not add cream or sugar products and limit intake to 1 to 2 cups per day.

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