Pregnancy Articles

Snack Rehab

Think Before You Bite

First off, let me just state for the record, that junk food is NOT forbidden. I consider high-fat, high-sugar, high-calorie, nutrient-lacking foods as?"nice, but not necessary" foods. They may not be necessary for a healthy diet, but they sure do make eating and snacking a pleasure.

I also feel that 5-6 mini-meals a day or snacks can be a very healthy way to eat. This type of eating style fits into our busy lifestyles, offers flexibility and also helps with the nausea and heartburn that sometimes comes with pregnancy. Listening to your body and eating when hungry is very beneficial, and is much better than eating because the clock says it is time, or because you are bored, stressed, depressed, or emotional.

So if you are experiencing that craving for something coated with sugar or dripping in fat, go ahead and indulge...on occasion and in moderation. But also make sure you are meeting your nutrient needs and not packing on too many extra pounds. If you are looking for some ways to satisfy the sweet tooth, and curb the munchie-crunchies, check out the following suggestions.


Snack Rehab Ideas
Typical Snack
Rehabbed Snack
Ice Cream, milkshakes Nonfat frozen yogurt, sorbet, sherbet, ice milk, popsicles, fruit smoothies, frozen pudding pops made with low-fat milk, frozen yogurt pops
Doughnut or sweetened pastry Bagel with low-fat cream cheese and jelly, muffins, blueberry muffin, cinnamon scone
Can of cola Fruit fizz
Desserts Low-fat banana nut bread, zucchini bread, angel food cake, oatmeal raisin cookies, low-fat vanilla wafers, graham crackers, low-fat cheesecake, fruit pizza, chocolate-cinnamon bread pudding
Potato chips Low-fat chips, low-fat popcorn, pretzels, chili popcorn, trail mix, nuts and bolts, oven corn chips
Sour cream Nonfat sour cream, nonfat plain yogurt
Dips Curry dip, chili dip, bean dip
Page 1 of 1  

About The Author

Becky Hand
Becky is a registered and licensed dietitian with almost 20 years of experience. She teaches prenatal classes and counsels individuals, helping women eat right and stay fit before, during and after their pregnancies.
Becky Hand

Member Comments

There are currently no comments on this article