Food & Drink in Labor
Thinking about what you should pack in your labor bag to fuel your labor?
Labor is hard work!
You’ll want to have foods and drinks that pack each bite with nutrition!
Often you’re not “feeling” hungry in active labor, but it’s important for your birth team to think about your intake of nutrition throughout your birth. Below are some great options to consider:
Bone Broth: Bone Broth is a great way to have ample fuel throughout your labor. It can be consumed whether or not you’re having an unmediated birth, on pitocin or have an epidural (it’s a “clear” liquid). It’s easy to digest, high in calcium, magnesium, b vitamins and minerals! Think ahead! Make several batches and freeze them in the weeks leading up to your due date.
Soup: Think seasonally! Puréed Veggie Soups or Chicken/Vegetable Soup with cooked down chicken and Vegetables are great options!
Dried Fruit: Grab a few packs of dried fruit, easy for a quick and filling pick me up of sugar!
Labor Aid: One of my favorite recipes for “Labor Aid” is in the @firstfortydays . They have a great recipe on pg.73. It’s a perfect activity in Early Labor to prepare this!
Coconut Water: Such a great source of electrolytes and hydration.
Honey Sticks: Honey is a natural energy booster! Buying a pack is a great snack for labor and postpartum.
Hard Boiled Egg: what’s better than a simple hard boiled egg?! Simple to prep and a quick fix for a snack in labor.
Smoothies: Prep several smoothies in the last weeks of pregnancy. Smoothies are an awesome way to combine so many superfoods! Beets, spinach, kale, blueberries, bananas and more! Make several and freeze them in mason jars. Ready for labor or postpartum!
✔️Tip: don’t forget your partner! Make sure they have solid food! Even a sandwich or 2 packed! And caffeine. It never hurts to have some instant coffee or black tea as a pick me up!
