Smoothies are a delicious and (with the right ingredients) healthy way of fueling your pregnant body with supplementary nutrients you and your growing babe(s) need(s). Although you may not be pushing your body to max effort during your pregnancy workouts, it is still important to quickly replenish those proteins and carbohydrates, as well as maintain hydration after the sweat session is over. I teamed up with one of my favorite mommas and Certified Holistic Nutritionists, Sarah Michaud, to bring you three smoothie recipes that include ingredients specifically geared towards helping the expecting mom to feel refreshed and fabulous post-workout or if you’re just in need of a healthy snack!
The Smoothies:
*All ingredients used were organic. However, that can get pricey. You can use this “dirty dozen” list of most contaminated fruits and veggies as a guide of what produce to try and buy organic.
1. Coco-Green
Basil is surprisingly high in iron and folate, which is crucial during pregnancy. Always try to pair plant-based iron sources with Vitamin C to optimize absorption. Did you know that both pineapple and mango have more Vitamin C than oranges? Try the “Coco-Green” recipe for a quick-absorbing, nutrient-rich smoothie.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz coconut water
- 1 cup kale
- 1 cup spinach
- 1/2 frozen banana
- 1/2 c pineapple chunks
- 1/4 c mango chunks
- 1 scoop plant protein powder
- 2 fresh basil leaves
- pinch of himalayan pink salt
2. Due Date
What was once an old (mid)wives tale, apparently now has some scientific backing. A study from the Jordan University of Science and Technology found that eating six dates per day in the last four weeks of pregnancy can help cause labor to begin spontaneously (which helps avoid labor-inducing drugs like Pitocin) and even shorten the first phase of labor. So save this smoothie for the end of your pregnancy!
Ingredients:
- 8 oz water (or almond milk, but this will make a thicker consistency)
- 6 pitted Medjool dates
- 1 scoop plant protein powder
- 1/2 frozen banana
- 1/2 frozen avocado
3. Chocolate Cherry Dream
Tart cherries are great for reducing swelling and inflammation, a common occurrence in pregnant mommas. Try the “Chocolate Cherry Dream” to not only help reduce swelling in the hands and feet, but to also get in some vital nutrients.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz almond milk
- 1 c spinach
- 1 c frozen pitted dark cherries
- 1 scoop plant protein powder
- 1 tsp chia powder
- 1 tsp hemp seeds
- 1 tsp cocoa powder
Madeline Mosier Timm has coached CrossFit and fitness classes since 2011 and has been a competitive CrossFit athlete participating at the CrossFit Games Regional events, as well as numerous local unsanctioned CrossFit competitions. She is a momma to an energetic toddler, with baby number two on the way! She works hard to empower others to live a confident, sexy, and active lifestyle by focusing on overall wellbeing, proper nutrition and fitness.
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*Photos provided by author.
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