PREGNANCY & CHILDHOOD

Smart Pregnancy Snacks for Moms on the Go

9 Healthy Pregnancy Snacks for Moms on the Go

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These are the best snacks for pregnant mothers on the move. 

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JUN. 18, 2021 3 MIN. READ
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You want to give your baby the best nutrition before they enter the world. Your baby's health depends on what you eat, and every bite matters when it comes to nourishing your little one. But you've got a lot to do, and you need snacks you can make in minutes. 

Your growing baby requires important nutrients: protein for building muscles, calcium, and vitamin D for forming strong bones, and iron for making extra red blood cells needed during pregnancy. The best snacks for pregnancy satisfy your cravings and your baby's need for nutrients.

Try these 9 pregnancy snacks to keep you and your baby satisfied on the go.

1. Kefir

Kefir is a fermented beverage made from milk. It's loaded with probiotics and calcium for your growing baby's bones. Plus, it contains very little lactose, so even people with lactose intolerance will probably tolerate kefir well. For a flavorful twist, try this key lime kefir smoothie:

  • 6-8 ounces plain kefir 

  • Juice of one lime

  • 1 banana 

  • 1 tablespoon honey

  • Blend until smooth.

2. Avocado Toast

Who doesn't love rich, creamy avocado spread on toast? Avocado is a good source of essential fatty acids which is important for mom and baby.

  • Toast 1 slice of your favorite whole-grain bread.

  • Slice a medium avocado in half.

  • Remove the stone from the avocado.

  • Scoop half the flesh from the avocado with a spoon. (For an extra kick, place it in a small bowl and mix in lemon juice or salsa to your taste.)

  • Spread the avocado on your warm toast.

3. Roast Chickpeas

These will satisfy your crunchy cravings, and they're full of fiber and protein. To make them at home:

  • Preheat oven to 450 F.

  • Drain a 12-ounce can of chickpeas packed in water.

  • Toss with 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil.

  • Season with cayenne, cumin, cinnamon, or any other spices you prefer.

  • Store these in an air-tight container for a great, portable snack.

4. Parmesan Popcorn

In addition to the fiber naturally found in popcorn, you can get an added boost of calcium for your baby's bones when you make this gourmet treat:

  • 1 freshly popped snack-sized bag of plain microwave popcorn

  • 1/4 cup finely grated Parmiggiano-Reggiano cheese

  • 1 tablespoon melted butter

  • Black pepper to taste

  • Combine all ingredients in a bowl while the popcorn is still hot and enjoy.

5. Peanut Butter Energy Bites

Rich, filling and full of vitamin E as well as Niacin, these energy bites will satisfy your sweet tooth as well as your hunger:

  • 1 cup uncooked oats

  • 1/2 cup peanut butter

  • 1/4 cup honey

  • 1/8 cup mini semisweet chocolate chips

  • 1/8 cup toasted coconut, if desired

  • Combine all ingredients. Chill, then roll into 1-inch balls and serve.

6. Edamame

High in fiber and protein, a cup of raw edamame provides just 127 calories. Depending on your preferences, it can be boiled, steamed, pan-fried or microwaved and ready in minutes. To pan-fry edamame:

  • Heat a small amount of oil over high heat in a skillet.

  • Add fresh or frozen edamame.

  • Reduce heat to medium.

  • Allow edamame to cook (without stirring) until slightly charred, then turn over and char the opposite side of the edamame pods.

  • Sprinkle with iodized salt or crushed red pepper flakes if desired. Serve warm.

7. Quesadilla

Grab a whole-wheat tortilla and some of your favorite cheese, and you've got a satisfying, portable snack that provides fiber, B vitamins and calcium. You can even top with lettuce, cilantro, tomatoes or peppers to get a serving a veggies or leafy greens that will provide folate.

  • Heat a small amount of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.

  • Place a 6-inch whole-wheat tortilla in the skillet.

  • Cover the tortilla with shredded cheese.

  • Heat until cheese melts.

  • Fold in half and enjoy!

8. Mini Veggie Pizzas

Whole-wheat English muffins, a little pizza sauce, mozzarella and leftover chopped veggies. Stick them under the broiler for the best flavor, or microwave for about a minute if you're really crunched for time. These mini pizzas are a good source of vitamin C and calcium. To make mini pizzas:

  • 1 whole-grain English muffin, split in half

  • 1/4 cup pizza sauce, divided

  • Mozzarella cheese

  • Chopped vegetables

  • Layer sauce, cheese and vegetables on top of English muffin halves. Broil for 3-5 minutes or until cheese is melted and begins to brown.

9. Yogurt Parfait

For a super-quick snack, grab an individual carton of protein-rich Greek yogurt. If you have a few extra minutes, make a parfait:

  • 6-8-ounce carton Greek yogurt

  • 1 cup fresh fruit, chopped or sliced

  • 1/4 cup granola

  • Layer yogurt and fruit in a small dessert dish. Top with granola and enjoy!

And remember you don’t need to completely deny your cravings. Having a little dark chocolate can be ok. Select dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa for the greatest health benefits. As a good rule of thumb, use moderation in your choice of foods.

If you’ve been diagnosed with gestational diabetes and are watching how much sugar you eat, try a Glucerna® shake or snack bar. They taste great, are high in protein, and have a unique blend of slow-release carbohydrates to help manage blood sugar.

What's the key to easily building smart pregnancy snacks? Combine a high-fiber fruit or vegetable with another food that's high in protein or heart-healthy fat. Soon, you'll be snacking like a pro, and you and your baby will both benefit.

Postpartum Nutrition Tips to Help Support Recovery

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Focusing on postpartum nutrition can help you heal and recover after your baby arrives.

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The Promising Role of HMOs in Reducing Risk of NEC

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Welcoming a new baby into the world should be an exciting time if you're an expecting parent. But when your child is born premature, it's normal to worry about the possible health challenges and complications they may face.

Necrotizing enterocolitis, also known as NEC, is a rare condition that premature babies may develop during their first weeks of life. Though NEC can be managed, its effect on a child's health can be serious. NEC prevention may also be possible, according to new preliminary studies. 

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