With cold and flu season upon us, we’re all taking precautions. Vitamin C, soup, supplements…anything we can do to avoid catching the nasties floating around.
When you’re pregnant, your immune system is actually slightly lowered. Pregnancy also doesn’t allow for most common remedies. What’s an expectant person to do if they catch the dreaded bug? We’ve got a few tricks up our sleeves to help ease the struggle of being sick and get you back to normal.
While the old adage is to drink Orange Juice or pop some Vitamin C, Zinc is actually the supplement you want. It’s been clinically proven effective at shortening the length of colds. Ideally it should be taken within 24 hours of the onset of cold symptoms. Options include capsules and even kind of delicious lozenges and it’s completely safe for pregnancy. Some foods rich in Zinc are lamb or beef, Yogurt, and Dark Chocolate. So the next time you get a craving, grab some dark chocolate and tell yourself it’s for your immune system.
If you find yourself with a cough, the best recommendation (even from doctors) is honey. Dark honey is generally regarded as best but any honey will do. If you’re looking for some soothing for a sore throat, add some honey and lemon into some hot water. For a kick of flavor and a natural antibiotic add a slice of ginger root as well. Kick up your feet, turn on a movie, and enjoy some honey and lemon tea. You deserve it.
When it comes to medication, some of them are actually considered low-risk for pregnancy. Generally speaking, it’s recommended to avoid all medication if possible before 12 weeks of pregnancy and caution is advised after week 28. Common ones that are generally regarded as safe are Acetaminophen (for aches and pains), plain cough syrup (not multi-symptom ones), and cough drops. It’s very, very important to check with your doctor before taking any medication.
Hot Tip: Download the app MommyMeds for a quick reference of meds you can take that are GRAS (Generally regarded as safe) for both pregnancy and for breastfeeding.
We’re hoping you stay healthy this season but should you find yourself with the dreaded cough or flu, never fear! There is hope!
