Being pregnant is hard work. You are growing another little person after all and your body is going through so many changes to make this all happen. If you follow a healthy pregnancy eating plan, exercise regularly and also take some time out to relax, you should feel really good but at times quite tired as your body makes all its necessary adjustments.
Here is a list of foods you can include in your healthy pregnancy food plan that will help boost your energy and get over that “always tired” feeling:
1. Wholegrains
Wholegrains like quinoa, brown rice, oats, wheat, bran, popcorn and corn, are great energy boosters as they provide B group vitamins which aid energy metabolism and tissue, including red blood cell, formation. They also provide magnesium and iron which is a factor in energy metabolism and red blood cell formation. Wholegrains are also packed with fibre which helps keep your blood sugar levels stable and gives you long lasting energy. Fibre is also a great prebiotic food which promotes healthy gut bacteria to boost immunity and energy levels.
2. Legumes
Legumes, like lentils, chickpeas and beans, are high fibre and low GI which works to provide long lasting energy and stable blood sugar levels. They are extremely filling and again a great prebiotic food. They are a good source of protein which helps to build body tissue like muscle and antibodies which boosts your metabolism and your immune system to have you feeling energised.
3. Eggs, Lean Meats, Chicken And Fish
These foods provide heaps of protein, iron, zinc which supports tissue and red blood cell formation which is essential in carrying nutrients around the body. A common symptom of iron deficiency is a lack of energy. These foods also provide amounts of fat which help the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins which have important antioxidant properties. Oily fish like salmon also contain essential omega 3 fatty acid which promotes brain function, circulation and reduces inflammation with many long term health benefits. Grass fed meat contains omega 3 to a lesser extent.
4. Nuts And Seeds
Nuts and seeds provide a great range of protein, fat, carbohydrate, fibre, several B group vitamins, vitamin E, minerals such as calcium, iron, zinc, potassium and magnesium, and antioxidant minerals (selenium, manganese and copper), that are all essential to keep the body functioning properly and energy levels high.
5. Live Culture Yoghurt
Live cultured yoghurts are a great, economical source of probiotics which keep your digestive health in good working order and promote overall health and vitality in the body. Other probiotic foods to try include sauerkraut, miso soup, kefir, kombucha tea, pickles and kimchi.
6. Fruits And Vegetables
Of course fruits and vegetables are great for everything, they are packed with vitamins, minerals, fibre and antioxidants that help keep us fighting fit and energised.
7. Water & Herbal Tea
Hydration is extremely important in keeping energy levels up and throughout your pregnancy. Starting the day with a tall glass of water gives your body a hydration boost and gets you ready to tackle the day. Herbal teas such as green tea also provide a good source of antioxidants while also helping to keep you hydrated (look for decaffeinated options whilst pregnant).
