The holidays can be a stressful time for anyone, but being pregnant during this time can add another level of difficulty.

Not only do you have to try to manage holiday stress, but you also have to be extra careful about what you’re eating for the sake of your growing baby’s health.

It can be challenging to navigate holiday festivities, especially when many traditional holiday dishes are not the healthiest choices.

However, with some careful planning and a few food tips and tricks, you can enjoy the holiday season while keeping yourself and your baby healthy.

1. Create a Plan

The key to surviving the holidays while pregnant is to plan ahead. Before any holiday parties or events, take some time to plan what you will eat. Try to stick to healthy food choices, and avoid high-fat and high-sugar foods as much as possible.

It may also be helpful to bring your own healthy dish to share at holiday gatherings. This way, you can be sure that there will be something available that you can eat safely and enjoyably.

2. Eat Smaller Portions

During the holidays, there can be a lot of food available. It may be tempting to indulge, but portion control is key. Eating smaller portions can still allow you to enjoy some of your favorite holiday dishes without overeating and feeling sick afterward.

When you’re pregnant, your stomach is often compressed, leading to feelings of fullness faster than usual. Eating smaller portions can help prevent nausea and indigestion associated with overeating.

3. Stay Hydrated

Drinking enough water is always important, but especially so when you’re pregnant. During the holidays, it can be easy to forget to drink enough water between all the socializing and eating.

Make sure to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and to help with digestion. You can also opt for flavored waters or herbal teas to add some variety.

4. Focus on Protein and Fiber

Protein and fiber-rich foods can help keep you feeling full and satisfied longer. During the holidays, look for protein-rich options such as turkey or beans and fiber-rich options such as fruits and vegetables.

Protein can also help promote healthy fetal development and can be an important part of a healthy pregnancy diet.

5. Avoid Raw or Undercooked Foods

When you’re pregnant, it’s important to avoid certain foods that can pose a risk of foodborne illness, such as raw or undercooked meat, eggs, and seafood. This includes holiday foods such as eggnog, raw cookie dough, and rare lamb or beef.

Make sure that all of your food is thoroughly cooked and that you’re only eating safe, pregnancy-friendly foods during the holidays.

6. Listen to Your Body

During the holidays, it can be easy to get caught up in the festivities and ignore what your body is telling you. If you’re feeling tired, take a break. If you’re feeling nauseous, avoid any foods or smells that trigger it.

While it’s important to enjoy the holidays, it’s equally important to prioritize your health and the health of your growing baby.

7. Opt for Healthy Desserts

Desserts are often a staple at holiday gatherings, but they can also be full of sugar and fat. Instead, opt for healthier dessert options such as fruit-based desserts or dark chocolate.

You can also try making your own healthy desserts, such as fruit salads or low-sugar baked goods made with whole wheat flour and natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.

8. Avoid Alcohol and Caffeine

When you’re pregnant, it’s important to avoid alcohol and limit your caffeine intake. This can be challenging during the holidays, especially when there are many festive drinks available.

If you’re looking for a festive drink, try a mocktail or a warm, non-alcoholic cider. You can also opt for herbal teas that are safe for pregnancy.

9. Get Support

Finally, it’s important to have a support system during the holidays, whether it’s family, friends, or a healthcare provider. If you’re struggling with food choices or feeling overwhelmed, reach out to someone for help and support.

Being pregnant during the holidays can be challenging, but with some careful planning and a few food tips and tricks, you can enjoy the festivities while keeping yourself and your baby healthy.

10. Summary

Surviving the holidays while pregnant can be difficult, but with some careful planning and a few food tips and tricks, you can enjoy the festivities without compromising your health or the health of your growing baby.

Focus on protein and fiber, avoid raw or undercooked foods, and stay hydrated. Listen to your body and avoid alcohol and caffeine, and lean on your support system for help when you need it.