Now that I’m squarely (or roundly!) in my third trimester, my hunger has soared. As my little one continues to grow and get ready for his big debut into the world, I find that it helps to spread my meals throughout the day, and doctors agree: the American Pregnancy Association recommends that moms-to-be should eat sensible breakfasts, lunches and dinners with snacks in between. Check out my picks for 16 easy and nutritious snacks to boost your energy and keep you going in the home stretch!
16 Easy and Nutritious Snacks for Moms-to-Be
Looking for snacks to boost your energy, fill your belly and keep baby happy? Check out my picks for 16 creative, nutritious snacks for any mom-to-be!
Quinoa and Dried Cherry Cookies
Each bite of these scrumptious Quinoa and Dried Cherry Cookies is loaded with protein and vitamin C. So go on and have a couple as a snack without worry: one for you, one for baby!
Carrot Cake Smoothie
Feeling like a slice of carrot cake, without the guilt? Try this Carrot Cake Smoothie concoction instead to fill you up and satisfy your sweet tooth. Plus carrots are a great source of ABC’s for your baby: vitamins A, B6 and C!
Spicy Chili Edamame
Mommies-to-be love edamame: they’re filling, full of protein, folic acid and calcium, and make for an easy snack. Toss a cup of steamed soybeans with some chili flakes and paprika to put a little sizzle in your snack.
Organic Apples and Peanut Butter
A classic snack favorite, opt for a more wholesome alternative by cutting up apples from your local farmer’s market and topping them with organic, fresh ground peanut butter.
Tuna Salad with Fennel and Dijon
Tune up your plain ol’ tuna salad with this gourmet inspired recipe that includes fresh fennel, Dijon mustard and lemon zest.
Ladybugs on Logs
If you’re still fighting morning sickness, take it easy on your belly with these Ladybugs on Logs. Some light spreadable cheese or cream cheese topped with raisins will fill you up without making you too queasy.
Nonfat Greek Yogurt with Honey
With nearly twice the protein than regular yogurt, Greek yogurt makes for a creamy, filling snack when you’re craving dairy. Take a cup of nonfat plain Greek yogurt and drizzle in a touch of honey for a sweet finish.
Savory Thyme Scented Lentils
Making these tasty tender lentils is a cinch: boil dried lentils in chicken stock with a few sprigs of fresh thyme for 20 minutes and then drain. Serve chilled or warm and treat yourself to a protein-loaded savory snack in the middle of the day.
Peanut Butter and Jelly Smoothie
Who says PB and J is for lunch? Shake up your morning routine with this rich smoothie made with your favorite peanut butter, jams or preserves and a whole frozen banana.
Egg in a Whole Wheat Basket
This eggs-cellent mid-morning snack only takes just minutes to make. Cut a hole in a slice of your favorite whole wheat bread then crack in an egg while your pan is good and hot. Heat until the egg sets, flip, and heat until your egg is is cooked through.
Carrot Apple Cherry Slaw
A little savory, a little sweet: this refreshing slaw satisfies all of mama’s cravings at once with touches of pumpkin pie spice, black pepper and honey.
Whole Grain Mini Pizzas
Craving a slice of pizza? Satisfy your craving with this wholesome alternative: top a whole grain English muffin with fresh tomatoes and part-skim mozzarella cheese.
Mini Broccoli and Cheddar Frittatas
If you need to have your morning snack on the go, make these Mini Broccoli and Cheddar Frittatas ahead of time. With proteins, vegetables and dairy in each bite, you’re practically giving your baby a mini meal!
Whole Grain Crackers and Light Cheese
Looking for a quick snack in the middle of the afternoon? Spread a wedge of light spreadable Swiss cheese onto tasty whole grain crackers. If you’re looking for a little sweet with your salty, top with raisins or dried cranberries.
Carrots and Hummus
A great source of fiber and omega-3 fatty acids, hummus makes a filling, savory snack. Swap out the carb-heavy pita chips for steamed carrots instead to add a little vitamin C to your snack.
Crispy Oven Baked Kale Chips
Loaded with iron, calcium and folic acid, these Crispy Oven-Baked Kale Chips are good for mom and baby and so easy to make.
Moms-to-be: what are your favorite snacks? Share your recipes and links in the comments!
