health & wellbeing

Top 10 healthy snacks to munch on in pregnancy Looking to find the top 10 healthy snacks to munch on in pregnancy? Look no further to find the  top 10 healthy snacks to munch on in pregnancy.   Pregnancy is a unique and exciting journey that comes with its own set of nutritional needs. Eating the right snacks at the right time can help maintain energy levels, provide essential nutrients, and keep both mother and baby healthy. Furthermore, it isn’t rare that pregnant women crave food they wouldn’t usually eat.  In this article, we’ll explore a variety of healthy pregnancy snacks that are not only nutritious but also quick and easy to prepare, while giving some more ideas for some pregnancy-known weird cravings. We’ll also share some information about the food a mum-to-be should not be eating during pregnancy.     Eating healthy pregnancy snacks is crucial for several reasons: Nutrient Intake: Pregnant women require more vitamins and minerals to support the growing baby. As some resources might deplete quicker than usual. Regular snacking can help fill in nutritional gaps. Energy Boost: Pregnancy can be exhausting, and eating snacks at regular intervals can help maintain energy levels throughout the day.  Managing Nausea: Small, frequent snacks can help keep nausea at bay, especially during the first trimester.  Blood Sugar Levels: Healthy snacks can help maintain stable blood sugar levels, preventing energy crashes and excessive hunger.  Explore the top 10 healthy snacks to munch on in pregnancy Here are some healthy snacks tips to have during pregnancy that are easy to prepare and packed with essential nutrients. Be mindful that certain foods and drinks are ill-advised during pregnancy. Avoid any raw or undercooked meats or fish, as well as any item made from raw milk. Furthermore, it is important to avoid alcohol. As a general rule, avoid anything raw. For salads and vegetables, ensure raw items are thoroughly washed.  1. Greek Yoghurt with Berries A creamy Greek yoghurt is an excellent source of protein and calcium, both of which are important for the baby’s bone development. Adding berries provides antioxidants and fiber. This snack is both delicious and satisfying. 2. Apple with Peanut Butter Apples are rich in fiber and vitamin C, while peanut butter provides healthy fats and protein. This combination makes for a balanced and tasty snack that can help keep hunger at bay. Alternatively, you can substitute apples with bananas, for an added fibre and potassium intake. Bananas might especially come in handy when you’re feeling nauseous and dizzy.  3. Hummus and Veggie Sticks Hummus is a great source of plant-based protein and fibre. Pairing it with colourful veggie sticks like carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers adds vitamins, minerals, and crunch to your snack time. You can add spices and herbs to make your hummus taste different every day and fulfil those pregnancy craves! Ensure the veggies are thoroughly washed and safe for consumption.  4. Whole Grain Crackers with Cheese Whole grain crackers are rich in fibre, and pairing them with cheese adds calcium and protein. This is a convenient and portable snack that can be easily enjoyed at any time of the day. Cheese will be a good source of probiotics. Be very careful though: stay away from specific types of cheeses: mould soft cheese, brie, camembert, some types of goat’s cheese and others with a similar rind. Avoid ricotta, feta, mozzarella, bocconcini and blue-veined cheeses as well. These may contain listeria, which can infect the cheese during the manufacturing process. Ensure the label mentions the cheese is made with pasteurised milk.  5. Smoothies Smoothies are a fantastic way to pack in several servings of fruits and vegetables. Use a base of Greek yoghurt or pasteurized milk for protein, and add spinach, banana, berries, and a spoonful of chia or flax seeds for added nutrients and fibre.  6. Hard-Boiled Eggs Hard-boiled eggs are a convenient snack that provides high-quality protein and essential fats. They are easy to prepare in advance and can be seasoned to taste with a pinch of salt or pepper. Make sure eggs are thoroughly cooked as uncooked eggs are not recommended during pregnancy.  7. Nuts and Seeds A handful of mixed nuts and seeds can provide a good dose of healthy fats, protein, and fibre. Almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, and flaxseeds are all excellent choices. If you’d like to spice up your healthy snack,, you can roast or season them for a change.  8. Avocado on Toast Avocado toast on whole-grain bread is a trendy and nutritious snack. Avocados are rich in healthy fats and fibre, while whole-grain bread provides sustained energy. You can add a dash of olive oil, some sea salt as well as chilli spice for an extra kick.  9. Cottage Cheese with Pineapple  Cottage cheese is high in protein and calcium. Pairing it with pineapple adds a sweet flavour and a boost of vitamin C. If you feel pineapple is a little acidic, swap it for papaya. You can even add a dash of maple syrup for added taste.  10. Edamame Edamame is a great source of plant-based protein and fibre. Lightly salted, these young soybeans make for a satisfying snack that can be enjoyed warm or cold.  These are the top 10 healthy snacks to munch on in pregnancy. You can also substitute veggies and fruits for alternatives, based on the season and to ensure you eat a diverse nutrient-rich diet. As an intuitive eating coach, I suggest you ensure your snacks are satisfying for body and mind as well as nutrient-rich.  Quick snacks to eat in pregnancy Sometimes, you need a healthy snack tip that doesn’t require much preparation. Here are some ideas for quick snacks to eat during pregnancy: 1. Fruit and Nut Bars Choose bars with minimal added sugar and a good balance of protein, fibre, and healthy fats. These can be a lifesaver when you need a snack on the go. 2. Cheese String cheese is a portable and protein-rich snack that’s perfect for busy