TOP TIPS ON WHAT TO EAT DURING LABOUR

Posted By: Hazel Richardson on 19th May 2015

Chloe is the perfect person to ask as she helps women to eat more healthily while leading busy lives and keeping up their energy levels. Here’s what Chloe had to say on the subject of what to eat during labour.

Eating little and often will help to sustain your energy. Bite-sized portions are ideal. Most importantly , avoid becoming dehydrated – this will only deplete your energy and slow the process down .

Always take lots of water – you could even add a squeeze of fresh lemon and a pinch of himalayan rock salt to yours to hydrate your body better. Coconut water is one of the best things to drink during labor, as it has a mild taste and is full of electrolytes.

Fresh fruit is refreshing, but it will also give you a quick burst of energy. a piece of fruit can give you enough energy to get through labour and delivery. Bananas are great for this as are apples and melon – foods that are easy to transport!

Dark Chocolate – It may sound strange to have chocolate , but if you find your energy flagging, a small piece or two of dark chocolate may be just the thing you’re looking for. The small amount of sugar will give you an energy boost, and the flavonoids will relax those same blood vessels and smooth muscles. These benefits will only come from dark chocolate, so the darker the better. Also, if chocolate is a comfort for you, it may help you to relax mentally.

Some dried apricots and almonds may do the job, they’re easy to transport and are a perfect size to snack on, AS are my chocolate yummy balls !