The Ultimate List of Easy Pregnancy Snack Ideas

I’m currently pregnant with my second and just finishing the first trimester (which has been everything you would expect the first trimester to be).

With my first pregnancy, and now with this one, I find myself needing quick, easy, (preferably healthy), snacks to grab when I’m nauseous, headed out for errands, or just plain tired.

So, here is my ultimate list of easy pregnancy snacks I have compiled.

Whether you’re battling morning sickness or need a pick-me-up, I’ve got pregnancy snack ideas for every trimester. From quick bites to DIY recipes, I’m here to make your snacking game strong and easy.

The Ultimate List of Easy Pregnancy Snack Ideas

Get ready for a comprehensive guide to pregnancy snacking! Let’s kick things off with the quick and easy store bought snacks (no preparation required). Maybe make a little pregnancy date night out of shopping for these snacks!

Quick and Healthy Pregnancy Snack Ideas

Fresh Fruit Packs:

Many grocery stores offer pre-cut fruit packs for convenience.

Hummus with Veggie Sticks:

Look for single-serving hummus packs paired with carrots or pretzels.

Individual Trail-mix Packs:

My favorite brand is the Antioxidant Trail Mix by Power Up (probably because of the chocolate chunks)

Whole Grain Crackers:

I tend for varieties with minimal ingredients and high fiber content.

Pretzels:

I have found that the salt on pretzels can help calm a nauseous stomach.

Dried Fruit:

Look for options without added sugars or preservatives.

Dark Chocolate Squares:

Delicious

Granola Bars:

Look for bars with whole grains, nuts, and minimal added sugars.

Popcorn:

Air-popped or lightly seasoned popcorn is a solid option.

Fruit Leathers:

Honestly they remind me of my lunches growing up but having a fruit leather in your purse or car can be really handy in a pinch.

Oatmeal:

It doesn’t get easier than oatmeal, and man, it always keeps me full for way longer than I expect.

Protein-Packed Pregnancy Snack Ideas

Greek Yogurt Cup:

Enjoy a serving of plain Greek yogurt for a quick protein fix and a good source of calcium and magnesium.

String Cheese:

Grab a string cheese for a convenient and portable protein snack – I live on these.

Hard-Boiled Eggs:

Pre-boil a batch of eggs and keep them in the fridge for easy access (if you can stomach them — I could not).

Almond Butter on Rice Cakes:

Spread almond butter on whole grain rice cakes for a simple and tasty snack.

Cottage Cheese Cup:

Purchase pre-portioned cottage cheese cups for a quick and easy protein boost.

Edamame Pods:

Steam edamame and sprinkle with a pinch of salt for a protein-packed snack.

Greek Yogurt Cup:

I prefer the brands Oikos or TwoGood.

Protein Bar:

I prefer my protein bars to have both protein and fiber as it helps me stay full and um, regular, if you know what I mean.

Rotisserie Chicken:

It doesn’t get any easier than that and it is a super efficient way to get some protein in.

Peanut Butter on Banana or Apple:

Spread peanut butter on banana slices for a delicious and easy-to-make snack. Bananas are an excellent source of b vitamin which has helped some with curbing nausea.

Yogurt Drink:

Choose a protein-rich yogurt drink for a convenient on-the-go option.

Tuna Salad on Crackers:

This isn’t for me but it is definitely protein rich! Top whole grain crackers with pre-made tuna salad for a protein-packed bite.

Protein Smoothie:

Blend protein powder with milk or a milk alternative and fruit for a quick smoothie (if you’re in your third trimester go ahead and throw some dates in there too).

Jerky:

Choose beef or turkey jerky for a portable and high-protein option. I get bulk packs for cheaper at Costco.

DIY Pregnancy Snack Ideas Ahead of Time

Homemade Trail Mix:

Combine nuts (cashews, almnonds, walnuts etc.), seeds (sunflower seeds are a good source of folate!), and dried fruits for a customizable and energy-boosting mix.

Energy Bites:

Mix oats, nut butter, honey, and add-ins like chocolate chips for a no-bake treat. Add protein powder for extra protein.

Overnight Oates:

Overnight oats can be made in a batch and eaten throughout the week.

Smoothie Packs:

Pre-portion fruits and veggies for smoothies and store them in the freezer for a quick blend.

Chia Seed Pudding:

Mix chia seeds with milk and let it sit in the fridge for a few hours or overnight.

Homemade Guacamole with Tortilla Chips:

Mash avocados and mix with diced tomatoes, onions, lime juice, and cilantro. Avocados are a great way to get in some healthy fat.

Apple Nachos:

Slice apples and top with nut butter, granola, and a drizzle of honey.

Individual Bags of Prepped Fruit:

This is my go-to. I will have snack size bags of grapes or strawberries ready to grab out of the fridge on my way out the door. Paired with a cheese stick it’s a perfect snack that won’t throw your blood sugar out of wack.

Stuffed Dates:

Remove pits from dates and stuff them with almond or nut butter for a sweet and nutritious treat.

Oatmeal Banana Cookies:

Mash bananas, mix with oats, and bake for a quick and healthy cookie.

Muffins:

Any kind, any flavor. So easy and so convenient.

Egg Muffins:

Easy to make ahead and grab out of the fridge. They heat up well too. I will make a big batch and even freeze them.

Snacking Tips for Busy Moms-to-Be

Making sure you have a variety of healthy snacks for pregnancy readily available is crucial to nourishing yourself and your growing baby during this special time.

I have found preparing snacks in bulk makes them easily accessible during hectic days and helps me avoid the tempting fast food chains. Try to opt for snacks that are portable and non-perishable, allowing you to enjoy them on the go without the need for refrigeration.

Anticipate and plan for cravings and hunger spikes by having a diverse selection of snacks on hand to meet different needs.

I aim for a balance of macronutrients, including protein, carbohydrates, and fats, to keep your energy levels and blood sugar levels steady throughout the day.

Snacking can be a fun and nourishing part of your pregnancy journey, but be sure to consult with healthcare professionals or a registered dietitian for personalized advice if needed or if you have gestational diabetes for more specific recommendations.

Hopefully this list of pregnancy snack ideas gives you a good start!

Wrapping Up

Overall, prioritizing healthy pregnancy snacks is a simple yet impactful way to ensure both your well-being and your baby’s optimal development.

Whether you have a persistent sweet tooth or are seeking savory options, this ultimate list of healthy pregnancy snack ideas offers a diverse range to satisfy every craving.

By incorporating snacks rich in fiber and healthy nutrients into your daily routine, you not only support your prenatal health but also maintain sustained energy levels.

Remember, it’s not just about what you eat during pregnancy, but how you nourish yourself consistently with well-balanced snacks throughout the day.

FAQ

Can you have treats while pregnant?

Yes, you can certainly enjoy sweets while pregnant. I’m not sure I could do without a little something every day. But it’s important to approach them in moderation and balance them with nourishing pregnancy snack ideas to help maintain stable blood sugar levels. Consider incorporating sweet treats into meals with a balance of protein and healthy fats to help mitigate blood sugar spikes.

Am I perfect at this? No. I had ice cream a lot with my first. She came out over 10 lbs and I did not have gestational diabetes but the doctors say I am just one to have big babies so I am sticking with that. (But also I am limiting the sugar with this second pregnancy just in case haha)

When should you eat snacks while pregnant?

As a pregnant woman, it’s advisable to eat snacks strategically throughout the day to maintain stable energy levels and support your nutritional needs. Aim for a schedule that includes snacks between meals to prevent prolonged periods without food, helping to manage blood sugar levels and alleviate common pregnancy-related symptoms such as nausea and fatigue.

Incorporating healthy pregnancy snack ideas in the mid-morning and mid-afternoon can be particularly beneficial.

Easy Pregnancy Snack Ideas – The Ultimate List