Every breastfeeding mom is aware of the extreme hunger that this task brings. It is essential to graze on filling snacks during this period, not just for the mom but for the baby too. The healthier you are, the more likely it is that your baby will absorb the nutrients you are giving it. Healthy breastfeeding snacks are a great way to eat whole foods that will satisfy your appetite and keep you energized throughout the day.
If you are a busy mom who does not have enough time to sit and eat at a table or eat a full meal throughout the day, snacking is a great option for you. After all, some days, our kids require our full attention, and you might end up spending more time in the nursing chair than you had estimated.
The best thing you can do for yourself is to keep a basket of healthy breastfeeding snacks right next to your recliner and graze on them whenever you feel your energy levels dip. After all, breastfeeding is exhausting, and you must take care of yourself during this time so that you can take care of your baby too.
Healthy Breastfeeding Snacks You Need to Try
We have combined a list of all the healthy snacks and recipes that will only take 5 minutes or less to whip up. Most of these snacks do not need to be stocked in the fridge; simply toss them in your child’s diaper bag or keep them in the car’s glove compartment so that you can re-energize anywhere you need to.
1. Trail Mix with Dried Fruit and Nuts
You can buy trail mix from the local supermarket and make your own at home. All you have to do is mix equal parts of dried fruit and nuts.
For some extra crunch, throw in some air-popped popcorn or mini pretzels. You can also add sunflower seeds, toasted coconut, and a pinch of chili powder to the mix.
2. Whole Grain Crackers and Hard-Boiled Eggs
Eggs can be hard to peel, but do you want to know a super easy trick that will help save precious time? Simply pop your cooked boiled eggs in some ice water to cool them. This will ensure that the peel comes off easily. For a wholesome meal, eat with some whole-grain crackers.
The eggs can be seasoned any way you want- you can add salt, pepper, red chili flakes, or even oregano powder. To ensure that the crackers stay fresh, make sure to store them in an air-tight container. This quick meal should not take more than 10 minutes to make and will keep you feeling full for a few hours.
3. Banana and Rice Cake
When you are running around with your kid or breastfeeding them, it is normal to want something quick to snack on. After all, most breastfeeding mothers do not have the time or energy to make a full meal for themselves.
Bananas are a great snack to carry around wherever you go. They are loaded with minerals and vitamins, such as B6, fiber, and potassium, and will provide instant energy. You can eat them alone or slice some bananas on a piece of rice cake. You can also drizzle some peanut butter on top for a dosage of healthy fats.
4. Granola and Greek Yogurt
Greek yogurt is one of the healthiest breastfeeding snacks you can munch on. It is low in calories and high in protein. Moreover, yogurt contains probiotics that can help boost digestion.
Add some granola to your yogurt for some additional crunch. You can find granola in different flavors, such as vanilla almond and roasted cashews. You can also choose vegan and gluten-free options. Top your bowl with some fresh berries and consume them as soon as possible!
5. String Cheese and Carrots
String cheese is one of the best things to snack on. The best part is that you can eat it straight out of the packaging!
Moreover, organic baby carrots are easily available in the market. They also come prewashed, making them a great option to pair your string cheese with. If you are looking to budget, try stocking up on some big carrots. You can easily wash them at home and peel them before consuming them.
6. Sliced Apple and Peanut Butter
Apples are full of iron and are recommended for breastfeeding women. To make your apple more interesting, you can pair every slice with some peanut butter.
However, keep in mind that conventional peanut butter is loaded with hydrogenated oils and sugar. Hence, we recommend getting natural peanut butter that only uses two ingredients- peanuts and salt.
You can also try cashew, sunflower, and almond butter for some variety.
7. Dark Chocolate and Berries
Every mother deserves to indulge and have a chocolate treat every now and then. If you are craving something sweet, get some dark chocolates rather than milk chocolates. Dark chocolates are loaded with antioxidants which help negate the harmful effect of free radicals that are found in the human body.
The best way to eat dark chocolate is by pairing it with some berries. Raspberries make the best combination, but you can also pair them with strawberries and blueberries. Most berries have anti-inflammatory qualities, making them a healthy breastfeeding snack to munch on.
8. Protein Bars and Milk
When you are feeling hungry, what better way to up your energy levels and satiate your hunger than by feasting on some protein bars?
You can find all-natural protein bars that are low in sugar and high in protein. Moreover, you can pair these with a glass of cow’s milk or almond milk which is unsweetened. The key is to find some balance. How delicious do protein bars and a glass of warm milk sound?
Our Final Thoughts
Breastfeeding can cause hunger pangs that should not be ignored. After all, if you don’t take care of yourself, how will you take care of your baby? These healthy breastfeeding snacks are perfect for including in your diet whenever you want, regardless of the time of the day.
