For times when you want to have something other than the main meals, a healthy snack can definitely save the day. Read the HerHaleness article to find a few suggestions that may satisfy your taste buds.
Disclaimer: This article is for informative purposes only and does not in any way attempt to replace the advice offered by an expert on the subject.
Every gynecologist in the world will have one advice to a pregnant woman―follow a healthy diet during pregnancy. But sometimes, eating full-sized meals isn’t what a mom-to-be is looking for. It’s true that she has to be very careful as to what and how much she eats, at times, the heart just wants to eat something that can make you feel satisfied in your stomach and mind. But taking utmost care of exactly what you eat is also important. What a mother eats goes directly to her unborn baby. So how can we find a proper solution to this? How about munching on heart and baby-friendly pregnancy snacks? You can try different delicious and healthy pregnancy snack ideas that can keep you full and nourished.
We’ve got different types of snacks that won’t affect your current pregnancy diet plan. So sit back, read through the rest of the article, and find healthy snacks for pregnant women.
Pineapple-Yogurt Smoothie
In a blender, mix ½ cup unsweetened apple or pineapple juice, ½ cup plain yogurt, and 2 cups fresh berries or peaches. You can drink this smoothie in the mornings or include it in your lunch as well.
Fruit Popsicle
In a blender, mix 2 cups fresh strawberries, peaches, and watermelon with 1 teaspoon lemon juice and 1 tablespoon sugar. You can couple tablespoons water to blend properly. Pour in the ice molds and wait for them to freeze.
Chicken Sandwich
Take 2 slices of whole grain bread, put 2 oz. cooked chicken (or turkey) with a slice of Swiss cheese. Add lettuce leaves, tomatoes, and cucumber with mustard sauce and you’ve got yourself the best snack to munch on any time of the day.
Chili Cheese Dip and Crackers
In a blender, mix 3 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, 1 cup low fat cottage cheese, ¼ cup chili sauce, ¼ cup skim milk, and ¼ teaspoon onion powder. When everything is blended properly, you can serve it with chips or crackers.
Chips and Salsa
When you’re in the mood of eating potato chips but can’t afford to go off track with your proper diet menu, here’s what you need to do. Take thin corn tortillas, brush them slightly with olive oil, and cut them into small pieces. Place in a 350ºF preheated oven and bake till crispy. Eat with mild salsa or bean dip.
Milk and Cereal
You know that drinking milk during pregnancy is beneficial for you and your baby. But if you don’t particularly enjoy drinking milk, how about adding it to a healthy breakfast cereal. Take regular cornflakes, add fresh almonds and berries in it. Pour the milk and have the cereal. A perfectly-balanced, healthy breakfast is ready!
Whole-grain Egg Sandwich
Take 2 slices of whole-grain toast and spread 1 teaspoon butter on it. Boil an egg and place it between the bread. This sandwich isn’t very heavy but keeps you full and energetic for a while.
Spicy Popcorn
In a bowl, mix 1 quart hot popcorn and ½ tablespoon margarine. Sprinkle in 1¼ teaspoons chili powder and ¼ teaspoon ground cumin. In the end, add a dash of garlic powder, mix well, and enjoy.
Cucumber Salad
In a bowl, mix 1 peeled and sliced cucumber and ½ red onion together. In a different bowl, mix 3 tablespoons olive oil, 2 tablespoons cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon sugar, ½ teaspoon salt, and black pepper. Add in the salad, toss properly, and keep in refrigerator for 30 minutes. Eat once the salad turns cool.
Cantaloupe and Peach Smoothie
In a blender, mix 1 cup cantaloupe cubes, ½ cup frozen peaches, ⅓ cup pineapple slices, ¼ cup orange juice, and 1 teaspoon sugar. Add few ice cubes, and blend properly; drink immediately.
It’s important that you stick to your pregnancy diet and eat what your body demands. These snacks are one way to reach that goal. Including these snacks, you should eat fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean meats, and drink adequate amount of water. Also, include a low-impact workout routine so that your muscles are strong while childbirth.