The Best Healthy Snacks for Pregnancy

We crave Chick-fil-A as much as the next mama and love to indulge in a sweet treat every now and again. But when you're pregnant, it’s important to make smart meal choices and eat nutritious foods. A balanced, healthy diet is crucial during pregnancy. Folic acid, potassium, and vitamin B12 are just a few of the nutrients that are essential to your baby’s well-being. To give your body and belly the nutrients you and your baby need, you'll want some healthy, go-to snacks to keep you fueled. Below, check out some of our favorite healthy snacks for pregnant women (or for anyone—even your kiddos!). 

1. Apples and Cheese

Apples provide B vitamins, vitamin C, potassium and fiber. Paired with cheese, which provides protein, calcium, vitamin B2, vitamin B12, magnesium, zinc, phosphorus, and vitamin A, this makes a well-rounded healthy snack. We love string cheese and mini Babybel cheeses for a quick snack. 

 

2. Bananas and Peanut Butter

Bananas are high in potassium and contain a lot of other vitamins and minerals as well. Peanut butter provides a high amount of protein and fiber as well as vitamin B6 and magnesium, which are all essential for you and your baby. Toss squeeze packs of Justin's Classic Peanut Butter in your Fawn Design bag for a handy on-the-go snack. 

 

3. Greek Yogurt Parfait

Greek Yogurt has protein, calcium, potassium, vitamin B12, and magnesium. Adding in some fresh berries can add vitamin C, manganese, fiber, copper, vitamin K, biotin, pantothenic acid, folate, and omega-3 fatty acids. Adding granola provides more protein and fiber. This is great for breakfast to boost you at the start of the day or as a snack in the afternoon to refresh you mid-day. Try Fage Total 2% Greek Yogurt and this Coconut Granola recipe from Two Peas & Their Pod. 

 

4. Whole Wheat Toaster Waffle with Peanut Butter or Almond Butter

Toaster waffles are a quick and easy snack, and the whole wheat variety have a decent amount of protein, fiber, vitamin A, iron, and calcium. Spreading it with either peanut butter or almond butter makes it more filling and satisfying, and adds a lot more protein. Try the Organic Multigrain Waffles from Whole Foods. 

5. Hummus and Vegetables

Vegetables are always a great snack option, and hummus is a healthy way to add flavor to raw veggies. Carrots, cucumbers, and celery are some great options to dip in hummus. Hummus is high in manganese, sodium, and copper, and rich in vitamin C and vitamin B6. Try the smooth, creamy hummus from Laziz. 

6. Homemade Trail Mix with Nuts and Dried Fruit

Nuts are a protein and fiber filled snack. Mixing in organic dried fruit adds a wide variety of vitamins and minerals, making this a great snack for any time of day. Make a large batch so it will last for 1-2 weeks. Try this healthy trail mix recipe from The Healthy Maven. 

 

7. Coconut

Coconut in any form is fantastic for pregnancy. It relieves morning sickness, helps in the formation of breast milk, increases circulation, prevents UTIs, and helps with digestion. You can drink coconut water, coconut milk, or eat raw or dried coconut to receive these nutritional benefits. We're obsessed with these coconut strips from Trader Joe's. 

Featured Photo: Shari's Berries