Written by Ben Bunting: BA(Hons), PGCert.

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Eno is considered a safe medication for pregnancy. However, it's important to remember that it may cause adverse reactions. You should not take ENO before a meal, and it should be taken on an empty stomach. If you think you might be pregnant, consult your doctor before taking ENO. It may cause side effects, including fetal alkalosis.

What is ENO Antacid?

Eno is a brand of over-the-counter antacid made by Haleon. Many people use it to treat stomachaches and acid reflux. What makes it different from other antacids is that it doesn't contain aluminum, which some people find bothersome.

ENO is a powder that can be taken as needed for fast relief of acid indigestion and heartburn. It contains sodium bicarbonate and citric acid, which help neutralize stomach acids quickly. However, you should never take this medicine if you are on a sodium restricted diet or have certain medical conditions. In addition, it can raise your blood pressure and disrupt your pH balance.

It is most commonly taken as a powder that is mixed with water and taken before or after meals. This antacid can help relieve the symptoms of heartburn and acidity, and may help you sleep better. However, it should not be taken by people with impaired liver or kidney function, pregnant women, and people with heart disease.

Although there are no specific regulations for ENO's use in food, its component ingredients are on the FDA's list of generally recognized as safe ingredients. And so far, the product hasn't caused any issues among the regulatory bodies.

It is important to use room-temperature water to mix ENO with, and not juice, since it may affect the product's effectiveness.

Taking ENO during pregnancy

One of the most important things to do when pregnant is to stay healthy. It is essential to eat right and stay away from unhealthy food, but also to consume plenty of water and other fresh fruits and vegetables to keep your body healthy. ENO is a great remedy for acid reflux, which is especially irritating for pregnant women, therefore it is tempting to buy it. 

Although it is generally safe to take, it is not recommended during pregnancy. This is due to its sodium bicarbonate content, which can cause dehydration and electrolyte imbalances in pregnant women. Always talk to your doctor before taking any medication during pregnancy.

Avoiding taking ENO before meals

The most common side effect of ENO is stomach irritation. It should never be taken before a meal. You should also avoid consuming fatty or fried foods, which relax the esophageal sphincter. If you do experience stomach irritation, notify your doctor or gynecologist.

It is important to remember that ENO can be dangerous to your pregnancy. It can alter the pH of your blood. You should not take it more than twice a day. The ingredients in ENO, sodium bicarbonate (Svarjiksara), and citric acid (Nimbukamlam), cause a temporary increase in blood pH.

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Side Effects

The most common side effect of ENO during pregnancy is nausea. The powder should not be taken before a meal, and the second dose should be taken two to three hours after the first. Some women report vomiting or diarrhea as their primary side effect.

Although the nausea is mild and usually passes after a few days, it can cause some stomach irritation, so pregnant women should inform their doctor if they experience nausea or vomiting while taking ENO.

Fetal health

ENO is a dietary supplement that can cause side effects during pregnancy, and pregnant women should be especially careful to avoid it. The main problem with this product is its content of sodium bicarbonate, otherwise known as Na2CO3. Salts can cause hypertension, which is dangerous to the fetus and can also cause anxiety in the mother.

Pregnant women already have elevated blood pressure, but taking eno during pregnancy can worsen the situation. In extreme cases, ENO can even cause the baby to miss the carriage.

The most serious side effects of ENO during pregnancy are the potential for fetal harm. Since sodium bicarbonate crosses the placenta, it can affect the fetus. This can result in low birth weight, jaundice, and respiratory distress. Eno can also lead to preterm labor, so women should always consult with their physicians before using this medication. However, there are safer options available for treating heartburn.

Fetal alkalosis risk

The risk of metabolic alkalosis during pregnancy is rare, and most cases occur as a result of vomiting or severe diarrhea. The risk is even greater at delivery, and the fetus may require additional organ support. In one case, a 22-year-old woman presented with acute renal and hepatic impairment and profound metabolic alkalosis at 37 weeks of gestation. This case is unique in its circumstances and should be considered with caution.

In early pregnancy, ENO is generally considered safe. It contains natural ingredients that are unlikely to harm the developing baby. However, pregnant women should consult with a healthcare professional before taking any medication. ENO is commonly used to treat heartburn, indigestion, and stomach upset. While it is generally safe for most people to take, it's important to discuss the risk of fetal alkalosis with your doctor.

Conclusion

Eno is a popular over-the-counter antacid that provides fast relief from heartburn and other stomach upset. It contains sodium bicarbonate and citric acid and is generally taken with water, either before or after a meal. Eno is safe to use by all adults, but children should be advised to check with a doctor. It's also recommended to avoid Eno if you have heart disease or are pregnant.