If you’re experiencing morning sickness, you’re not alone. Many women experience morning sickness during their first trimester of pregnancy. Contrary to the name, morning sickness can occur at any time of the day as nausea, vomiting and/or heartburn. If you are suffering from morning sickness, take it easy and take care of yourself. Don’t push yourself too hard or overdo it. Here are some other things you can try to help you cope with morning sickness:

Drink plenty of water. It’s very important to stay hydrated. If you can’t drink water without getting sick try something carbonated like Sprite or ginger ale. Another thing to try is to pour a splash of 7UP in your water. The taste of the soda helps to get the water down without it being totally empty sugar calories. No matter what, try to avoid caffeinated beverages.

Avoid strong odors. Many women get sick at the odor of a particular food or perfume during their first trimester. Try to avoid the odors as much as possible. If it’s a perfume of a co-worker, try to ask her if she can refrain from wearing it for a few weeks. Most women will be sensitive to your situation and will gladly pack away the perfume for a few months.

Cut out the spicy foods. Even if you are craving something spicy try not to eat it as the spicy foods will cause heartburn. If you must eat something spicy, try to eat a very small portion and eat some bread along with it

Keep crackers nearby. Saltines seem to help control the nausea you feel. Try and eat a few before you go to bed at night and keep some by your bed to eat before you even get out of bed.

Use ginger and peppermint to settle your stomach. Both help to alleviate nausea so try ginger ale, cookies or tea or peppermint candies to help to settle your stomach.

If none of these tips work for you and you have severe morning sickness to the point where you can’t keep any food down call your doctor right away. He/she will be able to help you work through your morning sickness.