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They call it "morning," but expecting moms know nausea can strike at any time of day, from morning until night. Every body is different, but the majority of women feel some nausea between weeks 6 and 18. The best cure for morning sickness is time, but in the meantime, there are some safe, natural foods tips that can help give you some relief from that unpleasant feeling. (Be sure to tell your doctor if your nausea is severe, if you're losing weight, or if vomiting is preventing you from getting enough food or fluids. In rare cases, new moms may need to combat Hyperemisis Gravidarum, or severe morning sickness, with IV fluids or other measures.)
Ginger
Whether as a spice, a lozenge, or a tea, ginger is a go-to cure for nausea. Candied ginger provides a heavy dose of this powerful stuff along with a touch of sweetness. You can also find ginger lollipops, chews, and candies marketed to pregnant women. Some women swear by ginger ale, while others find the carbonation makes them feel worse, so try it and see if it works for you. Anise and fennel are two other spices known to calm nausea.
Citrus
Many expecting moms swear by citrus and other sour fruits, especially lemon. Just smelling lemon does the trick for many first-trimester moms. Try adding some lime or lemon juice to still or sparkling water. Or try freezing grapefruit, orange, tangerine, or other citrus juices into healthy popsicles that will keep you cool and hydrated.
Starchy Foods
Carbohydrates like bread, crackers, and plain pasta can help settle the stomach. Many expecting moms keep a small package of crackers by their bed so they can wake up and have a few first thing in the morning to combat nausea and hunger. Just be sure to look for whole-grain options, keep a balanced diet, and don't rely too heavily on processed foods.
Herbal Tea
Peppermint, ginger, and lemon balm all make delicious teas that calm your stomach while keeping you hydrated. Health food stores often sell blended herbal teas made specifically for pregnant women, but be advised that many contain red raspberry leaf. Red raspberry leaf is an effective, healthy supplement for most new moms, but there is some evidence it can cause premature labor in some women, so consult with your doctor before trying them, especially if you have a complicated pregnancy or risk factors for premature delivery.