Constipation
Different patterns, one point
Constipation can be a problem for some women throughout pregnancy. There are a number of different reasons you might have problems with constipation during pregnancy. Early on in pregnancy you may be so nauseous that it is hard to eat a balanced diet with adequate fiber. Iron supplements commonly prescribed for women with anemia tend to exacerbate constipation.
The acupoint Triple Warmer 6 is often used in cases of habitual constipation. Acupuncture at this point is often enough to stimulate a bowel movement. However, I suggest trying some self-help measures first before scheduling an appointment. Hopefully one of these suggestions will work for you. A recipe to prevent constipation follows.
- Dried apricots, figs, prunes and raisins are all helpful. Also try eating a banana first thing in the morning on an empty stomach.
- Drink a cup of HOT prune juice or lemon juice in HOT water half an hour before meals.
- An half hour walk in the afternoon or early evening helps keep things moving.
Honeyed Pine Nuts
- 1 cup pine nuts
- Raw honey
Place 1 cup of pine nuts in a jar with a lid and add enough raw honey to cover. Screw on lid and store the jar in the cupboard for 2 weeks. Eat one teaspoon of this mixture every day to prevent constipation. (From Ancient Healing for Modern Women by Xiaolan Zhao)