15 Healthy 200-Calorie Snacks for Antenatal Nutrition

A healthy, well-balanced diet is essential during pregnancy, providing the nutrients needed to support both maternal health and the growing baby. During the antenatal period, many expectant mothers experience increased hunger and cravings. Incorporating nutritious snacks into your daily routine can help maintain steady energy levels, provide essential nutrients, and prevent overeating at main meals. Choosing snacks that are nutrient-dense and under 200 calories can make it easier to manage weight gain while ensuring you’re meeting your dietary needs during pregnancy. In this article, we’ve compiled 15 healthy 200-calorie snacks that are perfect for antenatal nutrition, offering a variety of options that are not only delicious but also rich in vitamins, minerals, and fibre. These snacks can be easily integrated into your prenatal care routine, helping you stay energised and nourished throughout your pregnancy.

Why Are Healthy Snacks Important During Pregnancy?

Snacking during pregnancy isn’t just about satisfying cravings—it’s about fuelling your body with the nutrients it needs to support your baby’s growth and development. Small, frequent meals and snacks can help maintain balanced blood sugar levels, prevent nausea, and reduce the risk of overeating at larger meals. Healthy snacks also provide key nutrients such as protein, fibre, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals that are vital for both maternal health and fetal development. For expectant mothers attending antenatal appointments, maintaining a balanced diet and incorporating nutrient-rich snacks can make a significant difference in overall wellbeing. Many pregnant women may also find that regular healthy snacking helps combat fatigue and supports them in staying active, especially when participating in antenatal fitness activities like antenatal yoga. Let’s dive into these 15 healthy, easy-to-prepare snacks that contain around 200 calories or less.

1. Greek Yogurt with Honey and Almonds

Calories: Approximately 200 Greek yogurt is an excellent source of protein and calcium, which are essential for fetal bone development. Add a teaspoon of honey for natural sweetness and a small handful of almonds for healthy fats and a satisfying crunch. This snack is perfect for keeping you full between meals and supporting overall antenatal nutrition.

2. Sliced Apple with Peanut Butter

Calories: Approximately 180 Apples are rich in fibre and antioxidants, while peanut butter provides healthy fats and protein. This combination makes for a nutritious and filling snack that stabilises blood sugar levels and helps keep hunger at bay. Just be sure to stick to a modest portion of peanut butter to keep the calorie count in check.

3. Carrot Sticks with Hummus

Calories: Approximately 150 Carrots are packed with beta-carotene, an important nutrient for eye health and immune function. Pair them with hummus, a protein-rich dip made from chickpeas, for a satisfying and nutrient-dense snack. This combination is ideal for expectant mothers looking for a snack that promotes digestion and boosts energy.

4. Hard-Boiled Egg and Whole-Grain Crackers

Calories: Approximately 200 Eggs are an excellent source of protein and choline, which are essential for fetal brain development. Pairing a hard-boiled egg with a few whole-grain crackers provides a mix of protein, fibre, and complex carbohydrates, making it a balanced snack for the antenatal period.

5. Cottage Cheese with Pineapple

Calories: Approximately 190 Cottage cheese is a great source of protein and calcium, while pineapple provides vitamin C and natural sweetness. This refreshing and light snack is perfect for hot days or when you need a quick energy boost without feeling overly full.

6. Rice Cakes with Avocado

Calories: Approximately 200 Avocados are rich in healthy fats, fibre, and potassium, which are beneficial for regulating blood pressure during pregnancy. Spread mashed avocado on whole-grain rice cakes for a crunchy, satisfying snack that provides healthy fats and complex carbs.

7. Oatmeal with Berries

Calories: Approximately 190 Oats are a great source of fibre, which helps with digestion and prevents constipation, a common issue during pregnancy. Cook up a small serving of oatmeal and top it with antioxidant-rich berries like blueberries or strawberries for a nutrient-packed snack that supports antenatal nutrition.

8. Smoothie with Spinach, Banana, and Almond Milk

Calories: Approximately 180 A green smoothie made with spinach, banana, and almond milk is a great way to get a serving of leafy greens along with fibre, potassium, and calcium. Spinach is rich in folate, a crucial nutrient for preventing neural tube defects during pregnancy. This snack is both refreshing and nutritious, perfect for a post-antenatal yoga session.

9. Almonds and a Small Piece of Dark Chocolate

Calories: Approximately 200 For a snack that satisfies sweet cravings while providing health benefits, try a small piece of dark chocolate paired with a handful of almonds. Dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants, and almonds provide healthy fats and protein. This is a great snack for expectant mothers looking to indulge while staying within their calorie goals.

10. Cherry Tomatoes and Mozzarella Cheese

Calories: Approximately 180 This snack offers a combination of protein, healthy fats, and antioxidants. Cherry tomatoes are high in vitamin C, while mozzarella cheese provides calcium and protein. This light and refreshing snack is great for those who prefer savoury options.

11. Cucumber Slices with Tzatziki Dip

Calories: Approximately 140 Cucumber slices are low in calories but high in water content, making them a hydrating and refreshing snack. Pair them with tzatziki, a Greek yogurt-based dip, for a delicious and light option that’s rich in protein and probiotics, supporting gut health during pregnancy.

12. Almond Butter and Banana

Calories: Approximately 200 Bananas are rich in potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure during pregnancy. Spread a tablespoon of almond butter on a sliced banana for a sweet, creamy snack that’s full of healthy fats and essential nutrients.

13. Celery Sticks with Cream Cheese

Calories: Approximately 150 Celery is a low-calorie vegetable that provides fibre and water, while cream cheese adds a touch of protein and healthy fat. This crunchy snack is satisfying and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy pregnant women on the go.

14. Turkey and Avocado Wrap

Calories: Approximately 200 Using a small whole-wheat tortilla, wrap slices of lean turkey and avocado for a snack that provides protein, healthy fats, and fibre. This combination is not only filling but also helps stabilise blood sugar levels and supports a healthy antenatal diet.

15. Mixed Nuts and Dried Fruit

Calories: Approximately 200 A small handful of mixed nuts and dried fruit provides a balance of healthy fats, protein, and natural sugars. Opt for unsweetened dried fruit to avoid excess sugar, and choose nuts like almonds, walnuts, or cashews for a nutrient-dense snack that promotes heart health during pregnancy.

Incorporating Healthy Snacks into Antenatal Care

Maintaining proper antenatal care involves not only attending regular antenatal appointments but also ensuring that you’re following a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients. Snacking is an important part of pregnancy nutrition, as it helps maintain stable energy levels, supports fetal growth, and ensures that both you and your baby receive the vitamins and minerals needed for a healthy pregnancy. Healthy snacks can also provide support during antenatal fitness activities like pregnancy yoga classes, offering the energy you need to stay active. Whether you’re preparing for an antenatal checkup or simply relaxing after a long day, these snacks can help you stay nourished without overindulging.

How Antenatal Education Can Help

Attending antenatal classes near me can provide valuable insights into maintaining a balanced diet during pregnancy, including what foods and snacks are most beneficial for you and your baby. Antenatal education often covers topics like proper nutrition, managing weight gain, and staying active with safe exercises such as yoga for pregnancy. By combining knowledge from antenatal education with healthy snacking habits, you can optimise your pregnancy health and feel confident in your choices. Additionally, consider integrating antenatal massage or prenatal massage into your routine to further support relaxation during pregnancy. Stress management is crucial for maintaining a healthy pregnancy, and practices like massage for pregnancy can help reduce anxiety, improve circulation, and alleviate discomfort.

Conclusion: 15 Healthy 200-Calorie Snacks for Antenatal Nutrition

Choosing healthy, nutrient-dense snacks during pregnancy is an important part of maintaining good health and managing hunger throughout the day. These 15 snacks, each around 200 calories, offer a variety of flavours, textures, and nutritional benefits that can easily fit into your antenatal nutrition plan. From protein-packed options to refreshing fruits and vegetables, these snacks will help you meet your dietary needs while keeping you satisfied between meals. Remember, maintaining a healthy diet throughout your pregnancy is key to supporting both your wellbeing and your baby’s development. By attending regular antenatal checkups, staying active with antenatal yoga, and making informed dietary choices, you can feel confident in your ability to have a healthy and balanced pregnancy.