Pregnancy Snacks to Satisfy Your Cravings
Pregnancy Snacks to Satisfy Your Cravings
Are you hungry for more ways to nourish yourself and your growing baby? We’ve got the ultimate snack-time solution for moms-to-be!
We know that pregnancy comes with its own set of cravings and hunger pangs. Whether you’re dealing with morning sickness or feeling super hungry, snacks can be your lifesaver. They not only keep you satisfied but also provide essential nutrients for you and your baby.
Pregnancy Snacks to Satisfy Your Cravings
In those early weeks when nausea strikes or later on when you can’t eat a full meal, snacks are your go-to solution. During pregnancy, you need an extra 500 calories per day, but it’s crucial to choose foods rich in protein, folate, calcium, vitamin D, DHA (omega-3 fatty acid), iodine, and iron.
Delicious Pregnancy Snacks
So, what should you snack on to keep your energy up and nourish your baby? We’ve got you covered with simple and delicious pregnancy snack ideas. These snacks are easy to prepare, portioned just right, and range between 200 and 300 calories. Most importantly, they taste great and provide the nutrients you need.
Ready to conquer those pregnancy cravings and stay energised? Let’s explore some of the best snacks for moms-to-be.
Apple and Cheese
Looking for a straightforward and nutritious snack during pregnancy? Try apple and cheese! It’s an easy, tasty combo that can help you tackle your cravings and meet some important nutritional needs.
Pregnancy can be a rollercoaster, especially when it comes to eating. Whether it’s morning sickness early on or feeling too full later, this snack has you covered.
First, let’s talk about fibre. Most of us don’t get enough, and during pregnancy, you need about 28 to 30 grams daily. One medium-sized apple has over 4 grams of fibre and just 95 calories. It’s crispy and easy to carry, plus the apple peel has pectin, a type of fibre that’s good for digestion.
Next, calcium. You need 1,000 milligrams a day during pregnancy for your bones and your baby’s development. Prenatal vitamins are great, but they don’t have much calcium. Cheddar cheese slices give you 200 milligrams of calcium in each 1-ounce slice. Stick to one or two slices since they’re about 110 calories each with 9 grams of fat.
So, there you go – a simple and nutritious snack to keep you going and ensure you and your baby get what you need. Enjoy your apple and cheese snack!
Whole Grain Toast with Nut Butter and Chocolate Chips
Craving a sweet treat while juggling pregnancy hunger? We’ve got just the snack to satisfy your taste buds without the guilt: whole grain toast with nut butter and chocolate chips.
Let’s face it: pregnancy can be a wild ride when it comes to cravings. Whether it’s morning, noon, or night, sometimes you just want something sweet. And that’s perfectly fine! But if your sweet tooth seems to have a mind of its own, it’s a good idea to have some healthier options in your arsenal.
Here’s the delicious solution: Take a slice of whole-grain toast and spread a tablespoon of peanut or almond butter on it. Then, sprinkle on a tablespoon of mini dark chocolate chips. It’s like a mini indulgence that won’t break the bank on your calorie count.
Now, let’s talk about the goodness packed in this snack. Dark chocolate isn’t just a sweet delight; it also contains cocoa flavanols that can help protect your heart and even lower blood pressure. Plus, it sneaks in some essential minerals like magnesium, manganese, copper, zinc, and phosphorus, which are great for your bones.
So, go ahead and enjoy this simple, satisfying snack that not only conquers your cravings but also gives you a little nutritional boost. It’s a win-win for you and your growing baby!
Veggies or Chips With Guacamole
Looking for a satisfying snack that battles the pregnancy bloat and still tastes great? Say hello to your new snack-time buddies: veggies or chips with guacamole.
While going on this incredible journey of pregnancy, the swelling in your hands, feet, and ankles sometimes might make you feel a bit like a balloon. The secret to deflating? Cutting down on sodium. When you consume too much salt, your body holds onto water to balance things out.
But here’s the kicker: Drinking more water and munching on foods with high water content can help flush out that extra salt.
So, let’s dive into these snack options. First up, we have cucumber, carrots, and celery slices. They’re not only low in calories but also packed with water (cucumber at 96%, celery at 95%, and carrots at 87%).
Pair them with a quarter cup of guacamole, and you’ve got yourself a refreshing and hydrating snack. Guacamole, made from ripe avocado, lime juice, red onion, and cilantro, is loaded with potassium, which helps your body maintain fluid balance.
But if you’re a die-hard guac-and-chips fan, don’t worry; we’ve got you covered too. Opt for lower-sodium tortilla chips (aim for less than 100 mg of sodium per 1-ounce serving) and pair them with a quarter cup of guacamole. It’s the perfect salty-crunchy combo with a touch of creaminess.
So there you have it – snacks that help you tackle the bloat, keep you hydrated and satisfy your cravings. They’re simple, nutritious, and oh-so-delicious. Enjoy your veggie or chip and guacamole snack, and let your pregnancy journey be a little more comfortable and tasty!
Homemade Trail Mix
Looking for a tasty and nutritious snack to power you through your pregnancy journey? Say hello to homemade trail mix – it’s like a little bag of energy that’s both satisfying and good for you.
First, let’s dive into the ingredients. You’ve got options here, so pick your favourite combo:
Option 1:
1/2 cup pumpkin seeds
1/2 cup dried tart cherries
1/2 cup raw almonds
1/2 cup dark chocolate chunks
Option 2:
1/2 cup walnuts
1/2 cup unsweetened coconut
1/2 cup dried diced mango
1/2 cup cashews
Both of these mixes are packed with pregnancy-friendly nutrients. For instance, pumpkin seeds are a magnesium powerhouse, which is crucial for building bones and teeth. Moms-to-be need about 300 mg of magnesium every day, and just a quarter of a cup of pumpkin seeds covers that. Plus, dried tart cherries contain melatonin, a natural sleep aid that will help you get better rest during those restless nights.
And let’s not forget the dark chocolate chunks – they’re not only delicious but also contain heart-protective cocoa flavanols. Dark chocolate also sneaks in some bone-building minerals like magnesium, manganese, copper, zinc, and phosphorus.
Now, almonds are another star player. If you’re not a fan of dairy, almonds have you covered with their 76 mg of calcium per ounce. They’re also rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fat and provide iron and fibre.
Or you can try our other trail mix options with mangoes, coconut and cashews in the mix, providing the same value of nutrients. So, it just depends on what you want with your trail mix.
So, here’s the deal: Make a big batch of this trail mix and store it in the fridge or freezer to keep it fresh. It’s a snack that helps you meet your nutritional needs while satisfying your pregnancy cravings. Whether you’re out and about or just need a quick pick-me-up at home, this homemade trail mix has got your back. Enjoy!
Hummus and Whole Wheat Crackers
Need a snack that’s quick, nutritious, and oh-so-satisfying during your pregnancy journey? Look no further than hummus and whole wheat crackers – it’s a winning combo that’ll keep you fueled and feeling good.
So here’s the scoop: Hummus is your protein-packed champion, delivering those essential chickpeas and healthy fats. Pair it up with whole wheat crackers, and you’ve got yourself a dynamic duo. These crackers provide wholesome carbs that keep your energy levels up.
But wait, there’s more! If you’re feeling extra hungry, toss in some sliced raw greens and a handful of olives. It’s like a mini veggie platter with a Mediterranean twist.
The beauty of this snack is in its simplicity. It’s ready in a snap and covers your nutritional bases while satisfying those pregnancy cravings. Whether you’re on the go or just need a tasty pick-me-up at home, hummus and whole wheat crackers have got your back. Enjoy!
Fruit Smoothie with Milk
Looking for a tasty and nutritious way to power through your pregnancy? Say hello to the fruit smoothie with milk – it’s like a sip of sunshine that’s gentle on your tummy, especially when those queasy moments strike.
Let’s break it down: Start with the basics – banana, almond butter, and milk. It’s a smooth combo that’s easy to handle, even on those queasy days. The banana brings natural sweetness, the almond butter adds a touch of richness, and the milk keeps it all creamy.
But when you’re ready to explore, the options are endless! How about a frozen cherry smoothie with a hint of cocoa powder? It’s like a chocolate-covered cherry in a glass.
Or dive into a tropical paradise with mango and pineapple – pure sunshine in every sip. And for the berry lovers out there, blend them up with peanut butter for a delightful twist.
The best part? These smoothies are not just delicious; they’re packed with the nutrients you need during pregnancy. They keep you energised, hydrated, and satisfied.
Whether you’re easing into the day or need a quick refreshment, a fruit smoothie with milk is your trusty sidekick. So sip away, mama-to-be, and let the goodness flow!
Frozen Banana “Ice Cream” with Chopped Nuts
Craving a sweet treat during your pregnancy that’s both delicious and nutritious? Get ready for a delightful surprise – frozen banana “ice cream” with chopped nuts. It’s like a sundae without the guilt!
Here’s the scoop: Start with a chopped, frozen banana and toss it in the food processor. Give it a whirl until it turns magically creamy, just like real ice cream. The best part? It’s naturally sweet, so you’re satisfying your cravings without added sugars.
Now, here comes the fun part. Top your banana “ice cream” with some chopped walnuts for a satisfying crunch. Throw on a cherry, and you’ve got yourself a sundae-like treat that’s both delicious and nutritious.
These mini recipes are the secret to getting through the day while ensuring you and your baby get the nutrients you need. Whether it’s a midday pick-me-up or a sweet finish to your meal, frozen banana “ice cream” with chopped nuts is here to make your pregnancy journey a little sweeter. Enjoy, mama-to-be!
Mashed Avocado on Crackers
Looking for a straightforward and nutritious pregnancy snack that can help with leg cramps? Try half an avocado spread on a slice of rye crisp bread or some crackers – it’s a simple solution with potential benefits.
Here’s the deal: During pregnancy, you might experience uncomfortable leg cramps, and a lack of potassium can be a contributing factor. Avocado is a potassium-rich food, with half of it providing 345 mg of potassium, along with 114 calories and nearly 5 grams of fibre.
You need around 4,700 mg of potassium daily during pregnancy, and many fruits and vegetables contain potassium, so it’s not as hard to reach that goal as it might seem.
Pair the avocado with whole-grain, low-sodium crackers or rye crisp bread. They not only taste good but also offer nearly 2 grams of fibre per 37-calorie cracker. This helps you meet your fibre needs during pregnancy.
So, there you have it – a simple and nutritious snack idea to help you tackle leg cramps and satisfy your pregnancy cravings. Whether you’re at home or on the go, half an avocado on crisp bread or crackers is a convenient choice. Enjoy, mama-to-be, and may your pregnancy be a bit more comfortable!
Plain Yoghurt With Fruit
Need a quick, nutritious, and pregnancy-friendly snack that satisfies your taste buds? Say hello to plain yoghurt with fruit – it’s like a little bowl of goodness that can help you conquer those cravings while taking care of yourself and your baby.
Here’s the scoop: Yoghurt is a superstar when it comes to pregnancy nutrition. It’s packed with protein and calcium, both essential for you and your baby’s development. But that’s not all – yoghurt also contains probiotics that can help battle the dreaded pregnancy-related constipation.
Now, here’s the fun part. Instead of grabbing flavoured yoghurt loaded with added sugars, opt for plain yoghurt. This choice saves you from unnecessary sugar while still being creamy and delicious.
To add that touch of sweetness, throw in some fresh fruit – whether it’s vibrant berries, juicy mango chunks, or crisp apple slices. It’s a natural and healthy way to satisfy your sweet tooth.
These simple snack ideas are your secret weapon for navigating pregnancy. Whether it’s a quick pick-me-up in the middle of the day or a satisfying treat before bedtime, plain yoghurt with fruit has got you covered. So, indulge, mama-to-be, and let your cravings be met with nutrition and flavour!
Melon With Lime
Looking for a refreshingly simple and pregnancy-friendly snack? Say hello to melon with a squeeze of lime – it’s like a mini hydration break with a burst of sweetness.
Here’s the juicy details: Watermelon, or any melon you prefer, is a hydration hero. It’s a whopping 92 percent water, which means it not only satisfies your taste buds but also keeps you well-hydrated during pregnancy. Plus, it’s naturally sweet, offering a delightful treat without added sugars.
And here’s a bonus – each cup of diced watermelon serves up 170 mg of potassium, a mineral that’s valuable during pregnancy. Potassium helps maintain your body’s fluid balance.
Now, if you’re feeling a bit fancy, you can even whip up some homemade watermelon juice. Just blend the watermelon with a splash of fresh lime or lemon juice, strain it through a fine mesh sieve, chill, and sip away! It’s a simple and refreshing way to stay hydrated and satisfied.
These mini snack ideas are your secret allies for a smooth pregnancy journey. Whether it’s a sunny afternoon or a quick craving fix, melon with lime is here to make your day a little sweeter and a lot more refreshing. Enjoy, mama-to-be!
Happy and Healthy Snacking for Mums-to-Be
In the whirlwind of pregnancy, smart and healthy snacking becomes your trusted ally, ensuring you stay energised and satisfied throughout this remarkable journey. The best part? It’s simpler than you might think.
Here are some savvy strategies to make your snacking experience even more enjoyable:
Perfect Snack Combo:
Start by aiming for the perfect snack combo – one that strikes a balance between protein, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats. This trio works wonders in taming those hunger pangs, so you won’t find yourself reaching for another snack moments later.
Stocked Kitchen:
Keep your kitchen brimming with a variety of wholesome options. Fresh fruit, nuts, plain yoghurt, cheese, whole grain crackers, nut butter, and hummus – having these at your fingertips is a game-changer.
Proactive Prep:
Here’s a pro tip: Prepare grab-and-go snacks in advance. Pick a couple of favourites for the week, whip up a batch, and portion them into individual servings. Whether it’s trail mix, cheese, or yoghurt with fruits, you’ll have choices ready to grab whenever the snacking urge calls.
Listen to Your Body:
Your snack requirements evolve as your pregnancy progresses. No extra calories are needed in the first trimester, while the second calls for 300 to 350 extra calories, and the third, 500. But don’t worry about calorie counting. Trust your appetite and focus on nourishing options – that’s the key.
Always remember, your choices aren’t just for you but also for your little one. While the occasional treat is okay, it’s crucial to steer clear of snacks that lack nutrients and are high in empty calories.
Instead, opt for nutrient-packed snacks that provide the vitamins, minerals, and energy you both need. Nutrient-rich options are the heroes of pregnancy snacking.
And don’t forget to stay mindful of what to avoid during pregnancy, such as raw fish, undercooked meat, deli meat, undercooked eggs, unpasteurized cheeses or juice, and alcohol. By making these mindful choices, you ensure the safety and health of both you and your baby on this incredible journey.
So here’s to elevating your pregnancy snacking game – may every bite be a delightful and nutritious step toward a happy, healthy pregnancy!
This article is meant a general information, always consult your medical professional for advice. If in doubt, always consult your doctor.
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