Snacks saludables para embarazadas
Cravings are part of the symptoms of pregnancy and can be a real challenge for the expectant mother, but with a little effort, a nutritional balance can be achieved without giving in to them. The key is moderation.
For years, it has been said that if a pregnant woman experienced a craving and didn’t satisfy it, her baby would be born with a spot on the skin. It is true that many babies have small pink spots, café-au-lait-colored patches, or moles, but their origin has nothing to do with an unsatisfied desire from the mother. These skin imperfections may be due to blood vessel issues, a genetic disorder, or an accumulation of melanocytes.
What is not a myth, however, is the importance of maintaining a healthy diet for the proper development of the baby. Gaining unnecessary weight can pose a risk for both mother and child. Cravings are often related to hormonal changes, drops in glucose levels, or even the anxiety that this new stage can bring. Generally, most cravings occur during the first trimester, but there’s no need to worry excessively as there are healthy alternatives to manage them.
Crudités.
Snacks are a fantastic option for pregnant women who suffer from dizziness or nausea during the day, and a way to get extra energy. Carrot or cucumber sticks, rich in vitamin A and fiber, provide many nutrients and have very few calories. They can be paired with fresh cheese or hummus.
Low-fat yogurt (as a substitute for ice cream). Perhaps the body is sending a signal that it needs calcium. Yogurt is healthier, lower in fat, and can be paired with cereals or nuts. In fact, some studies suggest that consuming nuts during pregnancy helps babies have fewer allergies.
Whole grain toast with jam is a good alternative when cravings focus on cakes or industrial pastries. For a savory snack, you can have a couple of slices of bread with avocado or olive oil. When consumed in moderation, their calorie content is worth it due to the benefits they provide to the baby. Both are rich in Omega-3, which promotes the development of the fetal nervous system, prevents diabetes, and helps avoid preterm pregnancies.
Vegetable and mozzarella skewers. It’s very important to always have vegetables ready to consume at home. Skewers are quick to prepare and allow us to control portion sizes. Try combining cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and mozzarella cheese for a tasty and healthy snack.
Chocolate. Although it’s okay to indulge every now and then, always opt for dark chocolate with more cocoa and less sugar. It contains healthy fats that slow the absorption of sugars into the bloodstream, prevent insulin spikes – which are responsible for hunger and slowing down fat-burning mechanisms – and it has antioxidant properties and flavonoids with positive effects on cardiovascular health.
