Preggie Poops

There is a pregnancy product out there called Preggie Pops. Every time I saw the packaging I read, “Preggis POOPS”. Preggie Pops are meant to ward off morning sickness, but considering the first to ingredients in order are, SUGAR and Corn Syrup, I’m thinking this product is full of shit. Really, I think the best thing is to have a tiny bit of food in the stomach all the time. Eat several small meals instead of two or three large meals. But I didn’t really suffer from morning sickness so what the hell do I know. Anyway, this post is about Preggis POOPS. The very best advice I received for my pregnancy was to drink Citrucel.

From the Mayo Clinic…

Constipation is common in pregnancy for several reasons, including:

• Hormone changes. An increase in the hormone progesterone during pregnancy slows the digestive process.
• Iron supplements. Often given to prevent anemia in pregnancy, iron supplements can make constipation worse.
• Changes in digestion. Your colon absorbs more water during pregnancy, which makes less water available for stool, resulting in harder stool.

Some tips for managing constipation during pregnancy include the following:

• Eat on a regular schedule. Small, frequent meals can help ward off constipation.
• Drink plenty of fluids, especially water. Aim for eight 8-ounces glasses a day.
• Exercise every day. Simple activities, such as daily walks, can be effective.
• Eat high-fiber foods, such as fruits, vegetables, beans and whole grains.
• Try fiber supplements, such as psyllium powder, Metamucil or Citrucel.
• If iron supplements are contributing to constipation, your doctor may adjust your dosage.

When a friend of mine called to congratulate me on my pregnancy with Sophia I could hear in the background her husband saying, “Tell her about Citrucel.” Over and over again.

Though it comes in a canister and is in a Tang like powder form, Citrucel is a great form of fiber and does not add to the already inflated amount of pregnancy gas. It’s awesome and will help things move right along. Make sure to follow the directions and add plenty of water. The only problem with it that I had was trying to drink it fast enough before all the fiber settles. I personally found it better to mix it in a six-ounce juice glass instead of a regular 12-ounce glass and trying to locate the 8-ounce mixing mark. I don’t know why things are always measured by an 8-ounce glass. I don’t think there’s any such thing. Damn Chinese products! You’ll have two ounces less to mix with, but it’s easier to down it quickly. If the fiber does settle, the texture of it could set off anyone with a hyper gag reflex. Anyone able to drink fast enough is golden. With the light orange Tang-y flavor, there is no nasty taste or aftertaste.

Citrucel is a fiber supplement not a laxative, but as with anything check with your doctor before using. I am not a doctor, nor do I play one on TV. This advice is not meant to take the place of talking to a doctor.