Healthy Smoothies for Pregnancy

When you’re expecting, you’re watching your wellness for two—or maybe more! During pregnancy, it’s important to ensure you are getting enough essential vitamins, proteins, carbohydrates, fibre, folic acid, antioxidants and healthy fats. Blending smoothies with a rich alphabet of vitamins is an easy and convenient way to boost your intake of essential nutrients and energy, whilst feeling satisfied between meals.

“Nutrition is critical for the pregnant patient, because there is an absolute dependence of the developing fetus on the mother for all of its nutrients,” Dr. Don Wothe, a perinatal physician with Allina Health.

In celebration of Mother’s Day, we collaborated with expecting mom (at the time of writing) and holistic health coach, Natalie Pierzchalski, to create delicious healthy smoothie recipes to enjoy during pregnancy.

The Sweet Greens with Nova Scotia Organics Protein Blend

Ingredients:

1/4 cup kale
1/4 cup spinach
1/4 cup chard
1/4 cup mango
1/4 cup pineapple
1 banana
1 tbsp hemp hearts
3/4 cup oat milk
2 scoops of Nova Scotia Organics Plant Protein Blend (Original)

Toppers:
1/2 banana
1/2 kiwi
1 Tsp chia seeds
2 tbsp granola

The Sweet Greens smoothie bowl in pregnancy is a combination of highly nutritious foods that support the body and mind in many ways! When an individual falls pregnant, it is even more important to be getting the proper servings of fruits and vegetables!

Folate is present in dark leafy greens and some fruits, which supports baby’s brain and spinal cord development. Note that folate is best absorbed in its natural form — methylfolate. The synthetic form of folate is referred to as folic acid and is not as easily absorbed.

The other fruits in this smoothie are rich in iron, vitamin A, C, B6, and potassium which are vital nutrients to support Mom and baby’s development.

PROTEIN in pregnancy is crucial for the healthy growth of all the baby’s organs and tissues, most specifically the development of the brain.  Protein also supports the immune function of the baby. As a vegetarian, getting the right amount of protein in a day can be a challenge, if I am not very conscious about what I’m putting into my body! Protein powder that is clean and deemed safe in pregnancy is a great way to be sure you are meeting your daily needs!

Test out this recipe and reap all the incredible health benefits for both you and baby!

Chocolate Banana Granola Cup with Nova Scotia Organics Chocolate Protein Blend

Ingredients:
2 scoops Nova Scotia Organics Plant Protein Blend (Chocolate)
1 frozen banana
1/4 cup raw unsalted cashews
250ML almond milk

Toppers:
Banana
Chia seeds
Granola

This smoothie cup is much more of a classic protein shake that satisfies those sweet cravings in pregnancy while simultaneously benefiting both you and babe! I gravitate towards this recipe when I know I need some extra protein in a day.  Below, I attached some key information about protein from Baby Center,

“The amino acids that make up protein are the building blocks of your cells – and of your baby’s cells, too. Protein helps your baby develop skin, hair, fingernails, and muscles. It also plays a role in the balance of fluids in your body, which can help you maintain a normal blood pressure and prevent pregnancy swelling. It’s important to get enough protein throughout your pregnancy, but it’s especially critical during the second and third trimesters. That’s when your baby is growing the fastest, and your body is growing substantially to accommodate your baby.” – Erin Hinga, Baby Center.

I hope you enjoy this very delicious recipe!!