6 Energy-Boosting Snacks to Pack In Your Labor Bag
Is your hospital bag missing the essential fuel you need to welcome your little one into the world?
You’ve taken the classes, and hired the doula, your hospital bag is packed and ready, but is it missing one essential item—snacks? Keep reading to discover a labor doula’s list of must-have snacks to keep you fueled during labor. From your first contraction to pushing, these snacks have you covered!
Wait, I can eat and drink in labor??
In most cases, yes! Although some hospital policies still limit a laboring woman’s intake to clear liquids or ice chips, current evidence supports a woman’s freedom to choose whether she will eat or drink during her labor. To avoid any surprises, be sure to have a conversation with your provider before delivery day.
Still have more questions about eating and drinking during your labor? Evidence Based Birth has some fantastic insights—check out the resource here.
When you first realize you may be in labor, continue eating and drinking as usual. This is not the time to skip meals — what you eat now is giving your body the energy it needs for the journey ahead.
Now, let’s take a look at some doula approved picks to keep you energized during labor!
Fruit
Fresh fruits like apples, bananas, and berries are gentle on a laboring stomach, and less likely to trigger nausea. Watermelon and kiwi are another refreshing option. Fruits are packed with vitamins, natural sugars, and water to provide a quick energy boost and keep you hydrated. Don’t leave fruit behind when packing your labor bag!
Trail Mix
Trail mix is a convenient and nutrient-packed snack that’s perfect for labor. It combines healthy fats, protein, and fiber from nuts and seeds, providing lasting energy to keep you going. Dried fruit or candy pieces serve as a sweet treat between contractions. Easy to pack and portable, trail mix is at the top of the list!
“The best snack is the one you actually feel like eating! As labor progresses, you might experience nausea, food aversions, or a loss of appetite. Opt for low-smell, calorie-dense options that are easy to stomach and provide the energy you need to keep going. ”
Nut Butters
Nut butters, like almond or peanut butter, are an excellent choice for labor due to their rich source of healthy fats and protein. These nutrients provide sustained energy which is especially important during labor. Nut butters are a versatile option and can be paired with fruits, crackers, or even enjoyed on their own for a quick energy boost.
Don’t skip on hydration!
Doula Tip:
In addition to water, try red raspberry leaf tea, coconut water, or electrolyte beverages such as Liquid IV.
Popsicles
Popsicles are a cool and refreshing treat, especially when you’re feeling overheated and your appetite is low. The natural sugars in many popsicles offer a gentle energy boost without being too heavy on your stomach. Consider choosing popsicles made from natural fruit juices or electrolyte-rich options to replenish your body. Don’t forget to pack a few in a cooler—you’ll be glad you did!
Honey Sticks
Honey sticks are a small but mighty addition to your labor toolkit. Packed with natural sugars, they provide a quick energy boost when you need it most. Easy to pack and mess-free, honey sticks are perfect for those moments when you need a little pick-me-up to power through. Don’t be surprised if your doula offers you one during pushing!
Protein Bars
Most laboring mamas aren’t up for grabbing a steak between contractions. Steer away from smelly and heavy proteins and opt for a protein bar. Simple and delicious—protein bars help sustain energy levels during the marathon of labor. Choose bars that are easy to digest and low in added sugars. We love these ones by RXBAR. Stock up on this easy to grab option for the postpartum period as well.
So, which snack is the best?
The best snack is the one you actually feel like eating! As labor progresses, you might experience nausea, food aversions, or a loss of appetite. Opt for low-smell, calorie-dense options that are easy to stomach and provide the energy you need to keep going.
Ask your doula for her trusted picks as well as what’s in her doula bag!
What are your go-to labor snacks?
What are your go-to labor snacks?
Resources:
https://www.cochrane.org/CD003930/PREG_eating-and-drinking-in-labour
https://evidencebasedbirth.com/evidence-eating-drinking-labor/
