7 Ideas of Foods to Eat During Labor

Now that new research has shown it is not dangerous to eat in labor, something home birth midwives have known for eons, here are a few foods many women find comforting as well as nourishing during their labors. Not all women want to eat during their births, so you will not have to force food (unless you have not eaten in many hours; your baby needs to eat, too!). When women vomit, they may think they will simply throw the food back up, so why eat, but vomiting is often a sign of low blood glucose and eating can help alleviate the problem. Many of these foods will be for women birthing at home or when women are in early labor before going to the hospital.

As always, talk to your care provider about whether you will be permitted to eat throughout your labor and birth.

1. Scrambled Eggs - Eggs are a wonderful protein as you work hard to birth your baby. They also sit gently in the stomach. With a piece of toast, you have a balanced protein and carbohydrate meal. Carbs are energy foods, so they are always good to eat with a protein food.

2. Peanut Butter Toast - The protein of the peanut butter is paired with the carbs of the bread. The more whole grain and chewy the bread is the better it is for you.

3. Bagel and Cream Cheese - Once more, protein for strength and carbs for energy. Some women find flavors like garlic or onion to be too strong, so opt for a whole grain or a berry bagel. The same thing can be said for the cream cheese; choose a milder rather than stronger type. Simple is a good thing!

4. Soup - Almost any kind of soup is a good choice, but bean soups tend to be too heavy. But if that is a comfort food for you, do not hesitate to choose them. Most women will have chicken noodle soup or chicken and rice, something gentle in the stomach. Adding crackers (whole grain is the better option) gives some crunch and, again, carbs to the meal.

5. Protein Smoothie - This is a great choice when the idea of food is unappealing. Using protein powder (whey, dairy or even egg if you have a milk allergy) added to juice, milk, fruit and sometimes peanut butter added makes a high protein, high carb alternative to a heavier meal. You can sip it every few contractions and it will slowly energize you if you are having a longer labor.

6. Granola or Protein Bars - These, too, can be bitten slowly in between contractions, giving you the energy you need to continue. So many options exist with protein bars, you could spend some prenatal time trying different ones out to find the ones you like the best. The more protein in the bar the better, but having one you like is even more important. If you are in the hospital, sometimes this is the only option.

7. Crackers, Cheese and Fruit - Ah, those carbs and protein mixed together again. Whole grain crackers, your choice of cheeses and fruits such as grapes, watermelon or cantaloupe make for a wonderful (and colorful) plate you can munch on over time. Each flavor complements each other and you can even feel like you are the queen of the dinner party, being served the best snacks of the house.

It is obvious that all the foods should sit well in your stomach. If something sounds awful to you when your provider suggests you eat, try something else. Foods in labor can bring you more than just nutrition, they can also bring you a great deal of comfort.

Barbara E. Herrera is a Licensed and Certified Professional Midwife in San Diego, California. If you want to talk more about what to eat in labor, feel free to contact her here: (http://www.NavelgazingMidwife.com)

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