Are You Pregnant in the Summer? Here Are 7 Nutritious Ways to Beat the Heat
If you’re in the northern part of the United States, summer is a welcome change. It’s full of sunshine and warmth that has been gone for many months. If you’re in the southern part of the United States, it’s likely that summer brings on a baked-oven vibe that isn’t too comfortable, even in the best of circumstances. Regardless, if you’re pregnant in the summer it can be an entirely different experience than your non-pregnant summers.
Increased personal temperature, blood flow, and pressure can make the summer heat even more uncomfortable. Fortunately, there are many ways to not only survive a summer pregnancy but also thrive! Summer is a time of growth and vibrancy and that can mean the same for you! Let’s discuss some nutritious ways to enjoy your summer pregnancy.
*Please remember, this is not medical advice. This article is for educational purposes only. Perform your research and critical thinking when choosing food for you and your baby.*
7 Easy and Nutritious Options for a Pregnant Mama
Finding something to eat when you’re pregnant can sometimes be a challenge. Whether it’s food aversion, lack of appetite, or nausea, you may be at a loss for what to eat. Then add in the heat of summer and you may feel completely defeated.
But have no fear! This list is easy and purposeful. Each option nourishes and cools you down.
1. Ice water with lemon, real salt, and raw honey
Ahh ice cold water in the summer, nothing beats it. I have only met one person who doesn’t like cold water, even in the summer (I’m looking at you bff 😅). But for the rest of us, ice cold water is so refreshing.
But as a pregnant mama, you need a bit more help to make sure your water is also hydrating. That’s why I like to add a pinch or two of real salt — like Redmond’s Real Salt or Celtic salt — plus lemon and raw honey. This combo makes a hydrating and electrolyte filled beverage sure to cool any hot mama.
2. Cold fermented foods
Not only are fermented foods crunchy, salty, and usually cold, they’re also packed with incredible nutritional benefits. Did you know that one TBS of raw Sauerkraut — fermented cabbage — has more probiotics in it than a whole bottle of over the counter probiotic capsules??
So while you’re both satisfying a crunchy/sour craving, you can nourish your gut health, immune system, and overall functioning. (Source)
3. Watermelon
There is nothing like a crisp and cold watermelon on a hot summer day. Did you know that watermelon is rich in vitamins C and A, magnesium, and potassium? It also contributes fiber and antioxidants, which can help support immune function, improve hydration, digestion, and detoxification. All of which we need in abundance when growing a tiny human!
4. Fruit Smoothie
As soon as I reach for my blender, my kids come running. Who doesn’t like a cold and smooth fruit smoothie on a hot summer day? I especially love that you can pack in veggies, protein, vitamins, and minerals while disguising it with sweet and refreshing fruit.
You can take it a step further and add milk kefir if you have it for the probiotic benefits.
5. Charcuterie board *yes, you can do this safely while pregnant*
Now I know I’m treading on thin ice… most conventional OBs will tell you to steer clear of cold cuts. And while I’m not encouraging you to run down to your local gas station for a three-day-old hoagie, I am encouraging you to make a decision that’s right for you.
Do you have access to properly sourced and fresh meats and cheeses? Does it make your life easier to have a simple snack-type meal that is filled with protein and fat and doesn’t take a ton of effort to throw together?
If so, then consider a charcuterie board during a hot summer pregnancy. Grab the fermented veggies, chopped fruit, cheese, carved turkey breast, and a slice of sourdough, and boom, easy summer meal packed with nutrients.
6. Chop salad
My family and I eat SO MUCH SALAD during the summer. It’s quick, easy, and has endless possibilities. My favorite salad is a spring mix with strawberries, red onion, roasted pecans, goat cheese, roasted chicken, and a balsamic olive oil dressing. I could literally eat this salad on repeat.
Another yummy combination is spring mix with hard-boiled eggs, bacon, cucumber, sunflower seeds, and homemade honey mustard dressing. Let me know in the comments if you’d like a recipe for any of these!
Salads are also great because they’re not heavy. So if you’re struggling with a very full belly of baby, you can still get the nutrients you need without a super heavy meal.
7. Homemade ice cream
You may be surprised that I’m encouraging ice cream, but it can be a great source of calcium and protein, especially if you can make it yourself or get it from a local source. When we make it, I add raw egg yolks and maple syrup to fresh raw milk for a whole food, icy cold summer treat. *Please do your own research and decide what is best for you and your family in regards to consuming raw milk and eggs.*
If you can’t make your own, no worries! Choose an ice cream with only ingredients you recognize: milk, cream, sugar, or maple syrup, and no artificial flavors, colors, or fillers.
Being Pregnant in the Summer Doesn’t Have to Be Miserable With These Easy Go-tos
Whether you’re in your first trimester and nauseous or in your third trimester feeling large and about to pop, at least one of these 7 options should help you enjoy the summer heat. I’ve never been due in the summer, but I have experienced 4 pregnancies in the summer months, and that alone was enough to teach me some tricks of the trade.
I pray this list gives you some inspiration when you need to beat the summer heat during your summer pregnancy.
