With an increasing appetite during pregnancy, it’s a great idea to always have healthy pregnancy snacks on hand. Below are 10 healthy snacks that will satisfy your hunger between meals and prevent you from reaching for pre-packaged options.
1. Boiled eggs
Boiled eggs are a great snack as they are easy to prepare and quick to eat. Make sure you always include the yolk as contains a healthy dose of vitamin D, which is important for pregnant mums and their growing babies.
2. Homemade trail mix
Keep a container of homemade trail mix in your handbag for the perfect “on the go” snack. Mix cashew nuts, Brazil nuts, walnuts, shredded coconut, and dark chocolate chunks for a healthy and tasty snack.
3. Banana pancake
The perfect balance of carbs, protein, and fats while providing you with a tasty treat at the same time. Simply mash a banana with an egg and a pinch of cinnamon and cook in a little coconut oil in a pan.
4. Apple slices with almond butter
Almonds are a great way to add magnesium into your diet. This important mineral helps to build strong teeth and bones in your baby, while also maintaining the health of your uterus. Plus how delicious are apple and almond butter together!?
5. Greek yoghurt and fruit
Greek yoghurt is high in probiotics, which are important for gut health and a healthy digestive system. Place a mixture of fresh fruit into a bowl (kiwifruit, feijoa, blueberries, orange, etc) and top with two to three spoonfuls of Greek yoghurt.
6. Carrot sticks and hummus
This veggie and hummus combo is a great snack for increasing the fibre in your diet, which helps to keep things moving and prevent constipation.
7. Smashed avocado on organic brown rice crackers
Avocados are packed full important nutrients that are vital while pregnant. One nutrient is folic acid, which greatly reduces the chance of neural tube defect in newborns.
8. Chocolate smoothie
Smoothies are a great snack that are quick and easy to make and super-satisfying. They are also a good way to hydrate you and curb those sugar cravings. Make a chocolate smoothie by blending a frozen banana, one tablespoon cacao powder, a handful of spinach, and 120ml of almond milk or water.
9. Carrot chips
If salt cravings are taking over, look for a healthier alternative to chips, such as oven-roasted carrot chips. Thinly slice the carrots, bake in the oven with a little rock salt, coconut oil, and mixed herbs. (see image above)
10. Coconut water
While this may not be a snack as such, it is a great addition to your diet and the perfect alternative to sodas and fizzy drinks. Coconut water is naturally rich in electrolytes, which play a key role in hydration. Stick to one cup per day as it can have diuretic effects.
Nutritionist Chloe Moir has a Bachelor of Science degree with a double major in Human Nutrition and Sports and Exercise Science. Chloe has her own nutrition business at chloemoirnutrition.com where she runs an online community all about inspiring, educating, and motivating woman to take control of their health and wellness. She teaches her clients to make small lifestyle changes and shares delicious and nutritious recipes that the whole family can enjoy.
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