What to snack on in postpartum
Why do you need snacks in postpartum?
Postpartum is a hungry time, when you need to replenish important nutrients that have been depleted by pregnancy, and get as much energy as you can.
And, it’s a time where you may not have time to sit down to a whole main meal. This is why nutritious, filling snacks are important.
One of my top tips for postpartum is to keep snacks everywhere - in your bedroom and baby’s room, in your car and nappy bag, and wherever else you’ll be spending your time.
Keeping your energy levels up
One good reason to have plenty of snack options around in postpartum is to keep your energy levels stable - because having small meals more frequently, rather than just a few large meals a day is best for this. Other ways to keep your energy up are to have protein and fibre with each meal, and choose low-GI carbs.
What should you snack on in postpartum?
All postpartum food should be warm, nutrient-dense, easy to prepare and eat, and comforting - if it makes you feel good, stock up on it!
And because pregnancy depletes certain nutrients, replenishing them becomes important in postpartum.
Let’s consider some good sources of these nutrients, that also make great snacks:
Nuts
Nuts are excellent sources of fibre, omega-3 and many minerals including iron and zinc. All nuts have something to offer in terms of different minerals so have what you like! You can eat nuts as they are, put them in energy balls and nut bars, or use them as a topping for your oats or chia pudding.
Oats
Oats are excellent sources of gut-friendly prebiotic fibre, as well as B vitamins and zinc. Use oats in overnight oats, bircher muesli, and oat bars.
Eggs
Eggs are a good source of protein, iron, and vitamin B12. A fried egg on toast makes a quick and filling snack, or you can take hard boiled eggs, cut them in half and give them a quick drizzle of apple cider vinegar and a sprinkle of salt.
Fruit
Fruit is an easy way to get fibre, antioxidants, and vitamin C. You can eat fruit as it is, or have it in smoothies, and an ideal postpartum snack is warm, stewed fruit with cinnamon. Half an avocado with a spritz of lemon juice and salt also makes a delightful quick snack.
Seeds
Like nuts, seeds are a great source of fibre, omega-3 and minerals. Warm chia pudding is loaded with fibre, iron, and omega-3, and you can add nuts, fruit, spices, and cacao powder for a wholesome and filling snack.
Did you know I deliver one-handed snacks and treats to your door in Sydney?
You can order individual snacks, or my Ultimate Snack Package which delivers freshly made snacks to your door three days a week for one, two, four, or six weeks.
You can order here - and remember snacks make a delightful gift for new mums.