Eating well during pregnancy is a no-brainer – our unborn babies depend on us to give them the proper nutrition to grow, develop and thrive. Here are five pregnancy superfoods to fit into your diet and why:
Sweet Potatoes
I LOVE sweet potatoes! Plus, if you are craving something savory while pregnant, bake up some sweet potato fries with sea salt and dip in organic, agave ketchup – YUM!
“Sweet potatoes are high in many important nutrients. They contain a good amount of fiber as well as vitamin A, vitamin C, manganese and several other vitamins and minerals.”
Health Benefits:
- Stabilizes Blood Sugar
- High in Antioxidants
- Boosts Brain Function
- Enhances Immunity
- Promotes Vision Health
- Aids in Weight Loss” (although while pregnant you should not be focusing on losing weight)
Almonds / Almond Milk
“Of all tree nuts, almonds rank highest in protein, fiber, calcium, vitamin E, riboflavin and niacin content by weight. Almonds are an easy snack to keep in a purse or diaper bag. I prefer Trader Joe's raw almonds. If your blender can handle it, add almonds to a smoothie to make a pregnancy superfood smoothie.” Source: Mother Rising
Benefits:
- Help reduce heart disease and heart attacks.
- Support Healthy Brain Function.
- Maintain Skin Health.
- Help Control Blood Sugar Levels and Prevent Diabetes
- Help Prevent Overeating
- Increase Nutrient Absorption
- Increase Digestive Health
- Can Help Fight Cancer and Inflammation
- Help Maintain Dental and Bone Health
Source – Dr. Axe
Chia Seeds
Chia Seeds are among the best superfoods for a healthy pregnancy because:
- Great Source of Omega-3s
- Replenish Lost Nutrients
- Slow Sugar Absorption
- Energy Booster
Chia seeds are also great for the skin/aging, heart health, digestion, boosts metabolism, create stronger bones, fights cancer, great for dental health, and much more.
My two favorite ways to eat Chia Seeds are:
- In Smoothies – add a tablespoon to your shakes and when blended it adds a delectable thickness. So yummy!
- Overnight Oats! Chia Pumpkin Pie Overnight Oats is my go-to recipe by Ambitious Kitchen.
Image owned by Ambitious Kitchen.
Lentils
“Lentils are a powerhouse of nutrition. They are a good source of potassium, calcium, zinc, niacin and vitamin K, but are particularly rich in dietary fiber, lean protein, folate and iron.” Source: Mother Rising
Benefits:
- Lots of fiber that fills you up.
- Heart healthy
- Improves Digestion
- Helps Alkalize the Body and Balance Its pH Level
- Helps manage blood sugar levels.
- High source of plant-based protein.
- Improves immunity.
Bananas
Bananas are amazing! They are a sweet treat with substance for an instant energy boost. Slice up and dollop with almond butter – yum! Bananas are also loaded with Potassium which helps those pregnancy leg cramps – ouch!
Other benefits:
- Helps Improve Mood
- Affordable, Portable, Low in Calorie Snack Choice
- Good Source of Brain, Skin, and Bone Health-Boosting Manganese
What other superfoods do you eat? Comment below or join the conversation on our Facebook page.
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