By: Being a mom-to-be is a full-time job. Juggling multiple tasks while taking care of your health can become tricky. One of the most important meals of the day is breakfast, not just for you but for the baby as well. You could use a decent morning smoothie.
Most mornings, as a busy mom-to-be you may lack time to prepare a healthy meal because of your hectic lifestyle.
Smoothies are packed with nutrients and are super easy to make. As a pregnant woman, you will require more nutrition this time, not only for you but for the baby. Let’s discover some myths and truths about smoothies.
Can pregnant women take smoothies?
There are misunderstandings about food items that moms-to-be can and cannot take. Smoothies are a sure shot, yes. They are an excellent alternative for heavy breakfasts as they are light but have enough energy and healthy fats.
Smoothies make a great, nutritious beverage throughout the first trimester. They are also great to take to feel better if you feel queasy. You may consume them as treats or as a nutritious breakfast alternative later in pregnancy.
Use organic ingredients and superfoods such as flax seeds, chia seeds, and dry fruits. If you have been asked to take protein, always add plant-based protein powder to your smoothie. Stay away from synthetic ingredients as much as possible.
What are some of the healthiest ingredients in smoothies for moms-to-be?
There are several benefits to making smoothies- they are made in a jiffy, loaded with nutrients and all the good stuff, and are super delicious. But with that being said, you must only use healthy ingredients and avoid the temptation of adding sugar or unnecessary calories.
For all the sweet-tooth moms-to-be, we have amazing sweet alternatives. Use fresh fruits such as bananas, raspberries, blueberries, and strawberries.
You can add multiple varieties of greens to your smoothie. If you have been told to eat more greens but feel nauseous at the sight of spinach or kale, add them to your smoothies and let the blender do its magic.
Oats are a healthy option to add as well. They are healthy and keep you feeling full for a longer period. Consult your doctor on the amount of oats to be added first.
Supplements can also be added to the smoothie. Add wheatgrass powder or spirulina powder to your smoothie to mask its bland and bitter taste. You must consult with your doctor and take only the prescribed supplements. Do not rely on the internet to give you answers.
Can we give smoothies to our little ones?
Yes, smoothies are great for your little ones as well. If you are a mom-to-be with a toddler, smoothies are a great way to provide them with extra nutrition that tastes great. Mix greens that he does not like with fruits that he does. Your little one will never know the secret and happily ask for a second glass. Add cocoa powder or dark chocolate and make the smoothie a staple beverage for your kid.
5 amazing smoothies
Now that you have much necessary information about smoothies, it is time for the fun part. Check out our mom-to-be-approved smoothie recipes.
1. Strawberry Shortcake smoothie
To make this yummy smoothie- all you need:
- 1 cup of frozen/fresh strawberries
- Half cup oats,
- 1 cup yoghurt,
- Half-cup unsweetened non-dairy milk (you can pick between oats/almond/soy/coconut or walnut),
- 1 cup kale,
- A handful of pitted dates for extra sweetness.
Add all the ingredients to the blender. Add some ice cubes to make it cold and extra refreshing. And all you have to do is blend and blend.
You can control the consistency of your smoothie. If you want a thicker smoothie, add more frozen strawberries and less non-dairy milk.
Similarly, if you want a runny consistency, adjust the ratio of liquids and solids accordingly.
2. Chocolate protein smoothie
Who said you have to have unhealthy stuff to satisfy your pregnancy cravings? We have the perfect alternative for those midnight chocolate cravings. No need to reach out for those chocolates kept on your side table. Instantly make this yummy smoothie.
All you need to make this smoothie:
- 1 banana
- 1 cup spinach
- 1 tablespoon peanut butter
- 1 tbsp cacao butter
- 1 tbsp protein powder
- 1 tsp vanilla essence
- 1 cup non-dairy milk
Blend all the ingredients in a powerful blender. To make the smoothie even more nutritious, add soaked almonds and walnuts. Remember, as a mother-to-be, never consume dry fruits without soaking them first. They are digested by the body faster, and the nutrients are absorbed completely.
If you want it sweeter, add any natural sweetener such as honey, agave, or maple syrup.
For a rich experience, add either dark chocolate chips or shredded chocolate to the smoothie. We can bet on the taste. It tastes similar to a calorie-infused chocolate shake.
3. Morning sunshine smoothie
Our particular Morning Sunshine smoothie gives you a burst of energy and nutrients. This smoothie is a mom-to-be’s dream when you have to rush out the door and do not have time to prepare a lengthy breakfast.
Note down the primary ingredients first:
- 1 cup mango (fresh and chopped)
- 1 banana
- ¼ cup soaked mixed dry fruits
- 1 cup yoghurt (unsweetened)
- Half cup non-dairy milk (almond/oats/walnut or coconut)
Add the ingredients mentioned above to the blender. You can adjust the sweetness of this smoothie by adding or removing the number of fruits. We like it as it is.
For a minty taste, add two pieces of fresh mint leaves. It gives the smoothie a kick of freshness and a distinct flavour.
Make sure all the fruits are fresh and washed properly. This smoothie is packed with good sugar and can be given to your family as a healthy, filling breakfast.
It is also an excellent option for a snack or treat for the kids. Usually, when the kids come from school, they want something light, pour them a glass of this delicious goodness.
For our busy moms-to-be, you can prepare an extra batch of this and store it for later.
4. Very berry smoothie
This is fruit packed smoothie that is slightly tangy in taste and is, therefore, ideal for we would be moms who do not like sweet delicacies.
Note down the ingredients first:
- 1 cup frozen raspberries
- 1 cup blueberries
- 1 cup diced fresh mango
- Half a cup of orange juice
- 1-2 mint leaves
- A handful of soaked nuts
Blend all the ingredients in a blender and have yourself a fruit punch-tasting smoothie. There is no need to add artificial sweetener since it already has a lot of sweetness because of the fruits.
5. Go Green smoothie
This smoothie is equivalent to a green salad, only easy and delicious. Have a look at the ingredients :
- 1 cup baby spinach
- 1 cup kale
- Half cucumber
- 1 cup strawberries
- 1 cup blueberries
- 4-5 pitted dates
Blend everything together. You can add more fruits if you find the taste of leafy greens a little overpowering. It is a perfect beverage for our busy moms-to-be.
Final thoughts
Bringing a child into this world is one of the most magical experiences a woman goes through. It is important that you take care of your physical, emotional, and mental well-being during this time. Try these smoothies and give yourself some much-deserved love.
