Meal prepping is a smart way to stay on track with your nutrition during pregnancy, especially when you’re a surrogate. As a surrogate mother, you’re not just eating for your own well-being; you’re also nourishing the baby you’re carrying. Keeping up with a balanced diet that supports both of your nutritional needs can feel overwhelming, but meal prepping makes it easier to ensure you’re consistently eating well.
Here are some tips to guide your meal prep as a surrogate:
- Focus on Balanced Meals
Your meals should consist of a healthy balance of protein, carbohydrates, fats, and plenty of vitamins and minerals. Proteins, such as lean meats, beans, and legumes, are crucial for the baby’s development. Whole grains and complex carbohydrates, such as quinoa and brown rice, provide sustained energy, while healthy fats like avocados and nuts support fetal brain development.
Meal prepping can involve creating a balance of these nutrients in every dish. Consider prepping bowls with quinoa or brown rice as a base, topped with lean proteins like chicken or beans, and plenty of colorful vegetables for fiber and essential vitamins.
- Prepare Nutrient-Rich Snacks
Snacking can help curb nausea and ensure you’re getting extra calories between meals. Healthy snack options include yogurt with fruit, nut butter with apple slices, or a handful of nuts. These options are easy to prepare ahead of time and store in small containers, so they’re ready to grab when needed. You can read our previous blog on other healthy snack ideas here: Healthy Snacks for Surrogates.
- Stay Hydrated
Water is crucial during pregnancy, so ensure that your meal prep includes hydration. You can prepare flavored water with slices of lemon, cucumber, or mint to make it more enticing. You can also prep herbal teas (after consulting your doctor) or smoothies packed with leafy greens and fruits for an additional hydration boost.
- Meal Prepping for Convenience
The demands of pregnancy may make it difficult to cook every day, which is why batch-cooking and freezing meals can be a lifesaver. Try prepping soups, casseroles, or baked dishes that can be frozen in individual portions. This makes it easy to pull out a nutritious meal when you’re tired and don’t have the energy to cook.
- Consider Special Dietary Needs
Every pregnancy is unique, and sometimes surrogates have specific dietary requirements. If you’re dealing with gestational diabetes or food sensitivities, work with a nutritionist to plan meals that meet your needs. Your meal prep should reflect these requirements, ensuring every meal is safe and beneficial for you and the baby.
- Include Supplements if Necessary
Prenatal vitamins and supplements may be part of your nutrition plan. Consult your healthcare provider to ensure you’re getting the necessary nutrients like folic acid, iron, and calcium. Incorporate these into your daily routine alongside your prepped meals.
- Post Delivery Meal Prep
After delivering the baby, your body will need plenty of nutrients to support healing and recovery. Having meals ready for post delivery can save time and energy allowing you to focus on resting and adjusting back to your routine. Opt for meals rich in protein to aid in tissue repair, along with foods high in fiber, like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, to help with digestion. Including anti-inflammatory foods, such as leafy greens, berries, and fatty fish, can further support healing. Preparing freezer-friendly meals, like hearty soups, stews, and casseroles, can be convenient when you’re not ready to cook but need something nourishing. Staying hydrated and eating balanced meals will help promote a smoother recovery, helping you feel your best as you transition back to everyday life.
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Meal prepping as a surrogate is an excellent way to maintain a healthy, well-balanced diet while ensuring you’re eating enough to support both your body and the baby. Planning your meals ahead of time takes the stress out of daily cooking and allows you to focus on rest and other aspects of your journey. Always remember to consult your healthcare provider when making any dietary changes to ensure you’re on the right track for a healthy pregnancy. If you have any questions at all, please contact us here at Shared Conception by calling (713) 622-1144.
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