What Should I Eat During Labor?
Eating and staying hydrated are crucial during labor in order to keep your energy and strength for this momentous occasion! But what are the best things to snack on during your early labor? Let’s take a look at some of the best options.
What are the body’s nutritional needs during labor?
Think of this analogy: unmedicated birth is comparable to running a marathon. This analogy is true on several levels.
If you are in labor, you need significant energy to make it through. Taking in calories during labor is crucial, even if you don’t feel hungry. Why? Let’s come back to the analogy.
In a marathon, a runner can strategically consume carbs throughout the race. However, in labor, your body might not signal hunger during contractions. In these situations, calorie-rich foods provide a quick and efficient energy source for your muscles (especially in the uterus).
During labor, your body primarily relies on glycogen, which is a form of glucose stored in your muscles and liver that provides energy. Calorie-rich nutrition during labor helps prevent fatigue and helps you to push through contractions better.
What are some good snacks or drinks for labor?
Considering the nutritional needs during labor, we recommend calorie-dense snacks, such as those high in protein and carbs, and whatever is palatable for you. Examples include:
- Banana: Easily available, this fruit provides easily digestible carbs, natural sugars, and instant energy. You can consume it whole, or mash it with a bit of nut butter for added protein. You can also go for shakes and smoothies.
- Trail Mix: Mix with nuts, dried fruit (like cranberries or raisins), and dark chocolate chips. These snacks provide carbs, protein, and healthy fats for sustained energy, without making you feel stuffed.
- Greek Yogurt: Another good source of protein and carbohydrates, Greek yogurt also makes you feel full. So you won’t overeat during labor. You can also have berries or a drizzle of honey for extra flavor and sweetness.
- Whole-wheat toast with Avocado: This is a source of complex carbs, healthy fats, and potassium. You can mash the avocado on toast or eat slices on the side.
- Electrolyte Drinks: Finally, you need to stay hydrated during labor. Along with water, you can go for electrolyte drinks. They help you replenish electrolytes lost during labor. But go for something with moderate sugar content, and take small sips throughout labor.
Where does the practice of not eating during labor come from?
This practice usually is important when one uses certain interventions in birth, like Pitocin. It is to prevent gastric aspiration pneumonitis in the event that further intervention that requires general anesthetic is required.
Since we do not offer these interventions at the birth center, we do not have a worry about eating during labor.
To sum it up, eating and drinking are vital for healthy labor, so eat and drink whatever feels good for you!
If you have any questions, feel free to contact us!