Healthy Breastfeeding Snacks for Nursing Moms
When you breastfeed your little one, you provide your baby with the nutrients that are stored in your body. The food you eat is not only the source of nutrients and fuel for your body, but it is also a source of nutrients for your little one. This is the reason you feel hungry more often. If you decide to breastfeed, you should eat breastfeeding snacks that are healthy so you can ensure both of you get all the essential nutrients.
Taking care of a baby and nursing a baby consumes a lot of energy. And this is where breastfeeding snacks can help you. Breastfeeding snacks should be healthy and delicious foods that you can pick up easily, make ahead of time, and satisfy your breastfeeding-induced-hunger and also provide your body with the energy it needs to stay active even with a little sleep.
What is a Healthy Breastfeeding Snack?
Not all snacks are considered healthy for a breastfeeding mom. Try to stay away from processed foods as much as possible as those usually have added preservatives and sugar that will actually make you feel more sluggish.
Snacks that have the following features can be a great choice:
It boosts lactation: Some foods are considered milk-boosters and promote a healthy milk supply. If you have any problem with milk production, then a healthy snack may help you increase milk production.
It keeps you energetic throughout the day: A healthy breastfeeding snack gives your body the right amount of energy to keep going throughout the day.
It is full of nutrients: Instead of having artificial flavors and ingredients, a healthy snack has all the essential carbohydrates, proteins, fats, and vitamins that you need to feel good and energetic.
It is easy to make: When you have to take care of a baby who enjoys getting all of your attention, you barely get time to make elaborate meals. So, during the busy days, a quick breastfeeding snack or a quick, healthy meal can be the right food for you!
6 Healthy Breastfeeding Snacks for Moms
For a breastfeeding mom, it is important to eat a balanced and healthy diet. The following are some of the breastfeeding snacks that are both super-delicious and healthy.
1.���� Boiled Egg and Whole Wheat Crackers
Boiled Egg and Whole Wheat Crackers Ingredients
- 2 hard-boiled eggs
- 12 crackers
- Black pepper
Directions
Place eggs in room temperature/slightly cool water. Keep them in the water until the water boils. Then remove pan from heat and let sit, covered, for 15 minutes. Once they have fully cooked, let them get cool then crack and peel their shell. Now make round slices. Place each slice on a whole wheat or brown rice cracker. Sprinkle black pepper or any other spice that you like. Another protein-rich breastfeeding snack is ready to help you overcome your hunger.
2.���� Nut Butter and Walnut Stuffed Dates
Nut Butter and Walnut Stuffed Dates Ingredients
- 16 Medjool dates
- 8 walnuts (almond is another option here)
- � cup of peanut butter or almond butter
Directions
Make a cut in the dates and discard their seed. Now fill the empty space with peanut butter fully. Place half of the walnut on the peanut butter. You can make this snack ready with 16 dates and then use it for one whole week. This breastfeeding snack will give calories that you need to produce nutritious milk.
3.���� Creamy Milkshake
Creamy Milkshake Ingredients
- 2/3 cup cold almond milk
- 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon honey (or any other natural sweetener)
- 1 to 2 ice cubes (if you want it chilled fully)
- Cream, sliced fruits or nuts as a topping
Directions
Add milk, cocoa powder, honey, and ice cubes in a blender. Blend them until they have a smooth and even consistency. Pour the milkshake in a glass. Garnish it with slices of fruits, nuts, and cream. Drink it until you are full. This breastfeeding snack will take only a few minutes to get ready and will provide your body with healthy calories.
4.���� Plain Yogurt with Yummy Fresh Berries and Honey
Plain Yogurt and Fresh Berries Ingredients
You will need:
- 6 oz plain full-fat yogurt or cottage cheese
- 1 tablespoon honey (you can change the amount it based on how much sweetness you like)
- 1/2 cup of fresh berries (you can add dried fruits and nuts like walnuts as well)
- Hemp seeds (provides extra protein and healthy fats)
Directions
Put the yogurt in a clean bowl. Cut blueberries and strawberries in 3 to 4 pieces. Place them on the top of the yogurt. Pour honey on the berries. Mix them thoroughly.
Yogurt will give you lots of animal proteins and berries will provide antioxidants, essential vitamins, minerals, and many important nutrients.
5.���� Apple Cheese Wraps
Apple Cheese Wraps Ingredients
- 1 whole apple
- 2 slices of cheddar cheese
- 2 slices nitrate-free organic turkey
- 1 lemon
Directions
Cut the apple into slices that are about half-inch wide. Rub lemon on apple slices. It will protect them from turning brown with time. Cut the cheddar cheese into pieces of the same size or a bit smaller size than that of the apple slice. Now cut slices of turkey as well, large enough to wrap around a slice of apple and cheese.
Do Not Forget to Drink Plenty of Water
As water is the chief ingredient of breast milk, you must drink it more than you used to drink before breastfeeding. Keep a bottle full of water near you all the time and drink when your baby drinks. Aim for 8-10 glasses of water per day. You can add honey, lemon, or cucumber as well to get more healthy nutrients and change up the taste.
If you’re looking for more tips to get your body back after having a baby, check out the Healthy Body After Baby 4-week program here!