Final answer:
The correct statement showing the client's understanding of how to alleviate heartburn is avoiding spicy and acidic foods. Dietary and lifestyle changes, such as eating small meals and not lying down immediately after eating, can reduce heartburn symptoms.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement by the client that indicates an understanding of the instructions to alleviate heartburn during pregnancy is, "I'll avoid spicy and acidic foods." This understanding is crucial because certain foods and beverages can trigger or worsen gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and heartburn. These include chocolate, fatty foods, peppermint, coffee, alcoholic beverages, spicy, and acidic foods. Making dietary and lifestyle changes can significantly reduce the occurrence and severity of heartburn. Lying down immediately after meals, eating large meals, and taking antacids right before bed may not be effective in preventing heartburn and could potentially worsen the symptoms.
To manage heartburn, it is recommended to eat smaller meals more frequently and to avoid eating late at night or before lying down. The esophagus is less protected from stomach acid compared to the stomach lining, hence why acid reflux into the esophagus can cause pain. Also, taking antacids can help neutralize excess stomach acid and provide relief, but they should be used as advised by a healthcare provider.