If you are expecting, a high-fiber diet can help you avoid some of unpleasant side effects of pregnancy, including constipation and hemorrhoids.

Month to month, pregnant women experience changes in their hormones and bodies that put stress on their digestive systems. Nausea and food cravings can alter dietary habits suddenly, causing constipation. Changing progesterone levels slow digestion. And growing babies put direct pressure on organs, making hemorrhoids more likely.

High- fiber foods can help by easing digestion, creating softer stools, and making bowel movements easier to pass. Along with exercise and drinking plenty of fluids, making fiber rich foods part of your daily routine when you’re pregnant can help make for a more comfortable pregnancy. As always, make sure to increase the fiber in your diet gradually while drinking plenty of fluids.