Healthy Snacks to Enjoy During Pregnancy

Read our top 10 list of healthy snacks and how to include them in your daily diet for a healthy pregnancy.

There is no denying that snacking is a common part of pregnancy. Therefore, it’s normal to find yourself reaching for a snack every 30 minutes or so. Also, with all the changes associated with pregnancy, no wonder it is essential to eat a healthy diet.

Snacking is a great way to add more nutrients to your body without worrying about consuming large sums of food at once. Yet, when you snack, you have to choose the right snacks to keep your body energized and ready for whatever comes next.

Below are some healthy snacks you can consume during your pregnancy:

1. Oatmeal

This is one of the most popular healthy snacks to eat during pregnancy since it’s filled with fiber and protein, which are essential for a growing fetus. To make oatmeal even more nutritious, add some blueberries or other fruit.

2. Frozen Veggies

Frozen veggies are the perfect cold snack when craving something crunchy but don’t want raw vegetables. They’re also packed with vitamins and minerals that can help keep you feeling energized throughout the day.

Try frozen peas, carrots, broccoli and cauliflower for a simple snack that will keep you going all day long.

3. Yogurt

Yogurt has been shown to promote a healthy gut bacteria balance in women with gestational diabetes (GDM). Yogurt is also high in calcium, which is especially important during pregnancy as it helps prevent osteoporosis, preeclampsia (high blood pressure) and eclampsia.

4. Apple

Apple is a very healthy snack to enjoy during pregnancy. Apples are low in fat, high in fiber and have no cholesterol. They are also an excellent source of vitamin C and antioxidants.

Apple is rich in potassium, which helps maintain the normal heart rhythm, maintain blood pressure and prevent kidney stones.

5. Cheese

The protein content in cheese is very high, making it a great snack for pregnant women since it provides the required amount of protein for their daily requirements. Cheese contains calcium, vitamin D, potassium and phosphorus, essential for a growing fetus.

Moreover, cheese contains lactic acid bacteria to help prevent morning sickness during pregnancy. It also has antibacterial properties that help maintain good health throughout pregnancy.

Please note, however, that some cheeses may not be safe for pregnant women. It is best to stick with cheese made from pasteurized milk and avoid unpasteurized cheese.

6. Eggs

Eggs are one of the best protein sources linked to a reduced risk of heart disease, high cholesterol and gestational diabetes. In addition, eggs contain various nutrients essential for fetal growth and development, including choline (a B vitamin), folate (folic acid), vitamin B12, iron, potassium, phosphorus and selenium. Eggs are also a good source of energy when you’re pregnant.

7. Watermelon with Lime

Watermelon with lime is a great choice for pregnant women who want to eat healthily. Watermelon and lime are full of antioxidants, which help protect against miscarriage, premature birth and premature labor.

The combo also contains vitamins A and C, essential for a healthy pregnancy. To create this snack, slice a watermelon into cubes and squeeze some fresh lime juice over the top. You can even add some fresh mint leaves on top if you like!

8. Smoothie

Smoothies are a great way to get a healthy dose of fruits and veggies in your diet. A smoothie is a fruit-based drink you can make at home or buy at the store. The best part about smoothies is that they are easy to make, versatile and delicious!

For those who want to eat more fruits and vegetables during pregnancy, you may want to consider making your smoothies instead of buying them at the store.

9. Granola Bars

Granola bars are a great healthy snack during pregnancy, especially when craving something sweet. They’re easy to grab and go, and they pack a lot of protein, fiber and whole grains. You can also choose granola bars with fewer ingredients—for example, those with no added sugar or artificial sweeteners.

10. Sliced Avocado

Sliced avocado is a healthy-fat and high-fiber snack that’s easy to eat while pregnant.

Avocados are rich in monounsaturated fat, which can help decrease your risk of gestational diabetes. They are also high in potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure and improve heart health.

The benefits of eating avocado during pregnancy don’t stop there. Avocados contain carotenoids, which may help prevent congenital disabilities, as well as fiber, vitamin E and folate—important nutrients for your and your baby’s health.

Conclusion

The best rule to follow is to avoid anything that contains additives or artificial ingredients and anything prepackaged. Stick with simple food, unprocessed and natural where possible—and don’t forget to read the labels.