While the cravings for sweet treats and other foods may take hold of you, it is important to always eat healthy during your pregnancy.
When choosing snacks, it is essential that you choose something that will not only make your tummy happy but your baby too.
Healthline suggests these six foods to incorporate into your healthy eating plan during your pregnancy.
Water
It is important for pregnant women to stay hydrated. General guidelines recommend drinking 2.3 litres of water daily.
Your body channels hydration to your baby. So, if you do not watch your water intake, you may become dehydrated. Increasing your consumption of water can also relieve constipation and reduce your risk of urinary tract infections, common occurrences during pregnancy.
Dairy products
Extra protein and calcium are needed during pregnancy, and dairy products contain two types of high-quality protein: casein and whey.
Dairy is also the best dietary source of calcium, providing high amounts of B vitamins, magnesium, phosphorus and zinc. Greek yoghurt, for example, is especially beneficial and contains more calcium than most other dairy products.
Dark, leafy greens and broccoli
These vegetables contain a lot of the beneficial nutrients needed. These benefits include vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin K, calcium, fibre, folate, iron and potassium.
Berries
Water, healthy carbs, vitamin C, fibre, and antioxidants are all packed in these delicious types of fruits. The best berries to nibble on as a snack while pregnant are blueberries, raspberries, goji berries, strawberries, and acai berries.
Avocados
This fruit is high in B vitamins (especially folate), vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin K, copper and potassium. Due to their high levels of healthy fats, folate and potassium, avocados are the best choice of food for pregnancy.
“The healthy fats help build the skin, brain, and tissues of your little one, and folate may help prevent neural tube defects, developmental abnormalities of the brain and spine such as spina bifida,” states Healthline.
Sweet potatoes
Sweet potatoes are rich in beta carotene, a plant compound that converts into vitamin A in your body, a type of vitamin that is essential for your baby’s development.
Also see: Tips for first-time pregnant moms
