Ooh, Go on Then! Healthy Pregnancy Foods That Are A Real Treat

Healthy pregnancy foods that taste naughty. Our guide to the tastiest pregnancy foods that you can enjoy – and still feel smug about being healthy.

When it comes to food, it might feel like the pregnancy gods give with one hand and take with the other. Yes, you might as well have seconds because your skinny jeans won’t fit you for the next few months anyway, but then some of your pre-pregnancy favourites are off the menu for the next nine months. But, that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy any delicious food at all…

Peanut Butter

Peanut Butter’s a great source of protein, fibre and antioxidant Vitamin E, which helps reduce cholesterol and works wonders for your hair and pregnancy skin. So, there’s your perfect excuse for smothering it on toast, apples, celery and well, whatever you fancy really.

Fruit

On its own, fruit might not seem like the most exciting snack, but there’s something about whizzing it up that takes it to a whole new level of yum. Banana, oats, milk and honey combines to make a fantastic pregnancy energy booster or try blending blueberries, strawberries and oranges for a berry-licious Vitamin C boost, which helps lower blood pressure.

Popcorn

Making your own popcorn at home is easy and cheap – buy a bag of popping corn and add your own flavouring such maple syrup, cinnamon, olive oil or a sprinkling of salt. Popcorn is a wholegrain that’s high in fibre which will give you a boost perfect to beat that 3pm slump.

Sushi

The reason sushi is often thought to be off the menu in pregnancy is because raw fish can contain bacteria. But, if prepared properly, it’s absolutely fine. If you’re still wary treat yourself to vegetarian sushi made with cucumber, avocado, beetroot and a side order of palate-cleansing ginger to satisfy your cravings.

Hummus

Hummus is a good source of Folic Acid which is important in early pregnancy so you don’t need to feel guilty next time you polish off a whole pot. Chickpeas, one of the main ingredients, are full of iron, magnesium, zinc and protein to fill you up and boost your energy. Just chop up some peppers, carrots and celery and dip away…

Strawberries… and chocolate

Deliciously sweet and packed full of antioxidants including Vitamin C, strawberries make for a great snack during pregnancy. For an extra-indulgent treat, why not dip them in dark chocolate? It will help lift your energy levels. Strawberries also have more folic acid than any other fruit, which is an important vitamin for ensuring your baby’s spine forms properly.