One of my absolute favorite parts of the breastfeeding journey was that I could eat more! It’s estimated that your body burns around an extra 500 calories a day while you’re breastfeeding. And you need to stay well-fed to keep your milk supply up. But it is important that you fuel your body with nutritious food that will help you produce milk and stay energized for the busy days of mom life. But it can be tricky to come up with non-junk food snacks during the busy days of breastfeeding, diaper changes, and contact naps! Here are 7 healthy breastfeeding mama snack ideas that will help fuel your body and keep your milk supply up.
- Nuts and Seeds Trail Mix:
Nuts and seeds are not just a crunchy delight. They also pack a punch of omega-3 fatty acids, which is brain fuel for your little one’s development. Plus, the protein in nuts keeps you going strong through those marathon mommy moments. - Greek Yogurt Parfait:
Greek yogurt isn’t just a snack; it’s a superhero in the dairy aisle. Packed with protein, calcium, and probiotics, it’s like a mini army supporting your body and your baby’s. Make it a parfait with fruits, and you’ve got a treat that tastes so good, you’ll forget it’s actually healthy. - Hummus and Veggie Sticks:
Hummus, made from chickpeas, is a snack-time champion. It’s got the protein and iron you need to be a superhero mom. Dip some colorful veggie sticks in there, and you’ve got a party on your taste buds while sneaking in essential nutrients. - Oatmeal Cookies with Lactation-Boosting Ingredients:
When sweet cravings hit, grab a homemade oatmeal cookie. Oats, flaxseeds, and brewer’s yeast aren’t just cookie ingredients – they’re rumored to work magic on milk production. It’s like having a secret weapon in your pantry, and who said lactation support can’t taste delicious? - Cheese and Whole Grain Crackers:
Cheese lovers, rejoice! Cheese isn’t just a snack; it’s a calcium-rich joyride. Paired with whole grain crackers, you’ve got a combo of protein and carbs, keeping you fueled and your calcium levels happy. Say cheese! - Smoothie Bowls:
Who says snacks can’t be a party in a bowl? Blend fruits, greens, yogurt, and protein powder into a smoothie bowl. It’s like a fruity fiesta that nourishes your body with vitamins and energy. Perfect for moms who need a sip of sunshine in a busy day. - Hard-Boiled Eggs:
Eggs are the snack-time MVP – packed with protein and choline for that extra brain boost. Hard-boil them (I actually bake mine in an oven tin), sprinkle a little salt and pepper, and you’ve got a snack that’s as easy as it is nutritious. Eggs-actly what you need!
So there you have it – snackin’ smart for the breastfeeding mom life. These bites aren’t just about keeping hunger at bay; they’re about celebrating the wild, beautiful journey of motherhood. Enjoy these tasty treats, embrace the chaos, and know that every snack is a small victory in the adventure of raising your tiny human. Cheers to snack time! 🎉