Along with the joy and happy anticipation that pregnancy brings are the natural changes and strains experienced by a new mother’s body. Fortunately, some of these discomforts can be managed by eating wisely, being physically active and getting plenty of rest.

One of the more common problems during pregnancy and after birth is constipation. Hormonal changes in your body cause your bowel muscles to relax and intestinal movement to slow down. This means food moves more gradually through your digestive system. The pressure of your growing baby on your digestive organs may also contribute towards constipation. In addition, the iron tablets and calcium-based antacids, which are often prescribed to pregnant women, can aggravate the condition.

There are many practical, solutions to combat this discomfort, the most simple of which is a diet rich in fibre and plenty of fluids. This assists the movement of food by making it soft enough to pass more swiftly through your digestive system. It is also important to arm yourself with the correct information and ignore myths like the one that fibre in your diet affects breast milk. Not only is fibre from foods such as the Kellogg’s All-Bran range completely safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding; it forms a vital part of a sensible and healthy eating regime.

Take good care of yourself and your baby by eating a well-balanced and varied diet and try these tips for combating constipation:

• Eat fibre-rich foods like Kellogg’s All-Bran Flakes, fruits, vegetables and wholemeal breads.
  
• Drink at least two litres of water a day.
  
• Try to include fresh or dried fruit as part of your daily diet.
  
• Use gentle exercises to stimulate the bowel and prevent the digestive system from becoming sluggish. (Walking and swimming are best.)
  
• Do not ignore the signals from your body; go to the loo when you need to.

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