Vitamin B6 For Morning Sickness

The foundation for this recommendation is based on a study published in the National Library of Medicine (2). It unveiled that pregnant mothers who took vitamin B6 tablets had reduced symptoms of morning sickness; nausea and vomiting. However, why that happens is not yet known.

Why Does Morning Sickness Happen?

There are many reasons for morning sickness. It is a concept that is still being researched. But here are some reasons for which it may occur:

1. Hormonal Change

The hormones hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) and estrogen increase during pregnancy (3). It is because hormones work as chemical messengers to develop the fetus. Due to the interconnectedness of hormones, the levels of adrenaline is also influenced. Hence, symptoms such as nausea and vomiting are seen.

2. Change in Adrenaline Levels

Adrenaline levels also rise when you have low blood sugar levels. The developing fetus demands sugar or glucose as well, which might lower a mother’s glucose levels. As a result, an adrenaline surge is used to supply the stored glucose into the bloodstream. Its symptoms are nausea, vomiting, appetite loss, sweating, etc.

3. Helps To Flush Out Toxins

Morning sickness is nature’s wellness insurance, another study published in the National Library of Medicine suggests. In ancient times, when humans used to eat meat and strong-tasting vegetables, the microorganisms lurking in them posed a danger to the fetus. A mother’s biology adapted by expelling these toxins through vomiting.

At present, even though our food may be safer, the body still does its best to protect the mother and the fetus. Moreover, another evidence which makes this theory convincing is that nausea and vomiting decrease after 12 weeks of pregnancy. This is when the fetus needs less protection from the toxins, pathogens and microorganisms in food (4). Moving forward, it is common among cultures consuming plant-based foods to experience fewer and less severe symptoms of morning sickness.

How Does Vitamin B6 Help In Reducing Morning Sickness?

Some studies have indicated that pregnant mothers with lower levels of vitamin B6 suffered more severe morning sickness. And taking a B6 supplement declined the rate of nausea and vomiting (2). Modern science still hasn’t found a reason for this phenomenon, all we know is that it works.

Tips To Help You Get Relief From Morning Sickness Naturally

Here are some alternatives to vitamin B6 for morning sickness relief. Before applying any one of them, you should seek the guidance of your healthcare provider.

1.Eat smaller meals throughout the day. An empty stomach increases the symptoms of morning sickness. Consume some dry bread or cereal soon after you wake up (5).

2. Introduce ginger to your diet in the form of ginger tea, ginger preserves, ginger ale, ginger chews and real ginger. Most experts believe ginger is a safe home remedy for morning sickness unless it is taken in excess (6).

3. Get moving, and go for walks or attend yoga classes, all after consulting with your doctor. Many women have noted that being consistent with their exercise is a big morning sickness reliever (7).

Morning sickness is nature’s way to ensure the safety of the mother and the fetus. However, there are some ways to tackle nausea and vomiting. Taking vitamin B6 for morning sickness at least three times a day and adding B6-rich foods to your diet will further soothe your symptoms.

FAQ’s

1. How Long Does B6 Take To Work For Morning Sickness?

Taking vitamin B6 (10 mg capsules), 3-4 times a day will take 6 to 7 days to show their effects.

2. What Foods Are High In Vitamin B6?

Foods such as Beef liver, Tuna, Salmon, fortified cereals and chickpeas are good sources of vitamin B6. Additionally, dark leafy greens, papayas, bananas, cantaloupe and oranges can also be taken.