The debate on whether women in labour should be allowed to eat or drink has been going on for many decades. However, in recent years, the reasons against not eating or drinking during labour have reduced substantially thus allowing many mums to do so, at least in the early stages. The recommended foods for consumption during labour should include light snacks and liquids to provide energy to the body and keep it hydrated respectively.
Although the approved menu for pregnant women in labour is not very extensive, there is a variety of solid food and liquids that have been known to be helpful during this time. Below is a list of foods and drinks that can be consumed when in labour.
Solid foods
- Spaghetti – It is advisable to eat plain spaghetti to add carbohydrates to the body. When the carbohydrates are broken down they provide energy to the body which helps during labour and final delivery of your baby.
- Toasted bread – This is another source of energy as labour progresses as it is easy to digest while giving a mum-to-be something to munch on. Avoid using any condiments such as butter or peanut butter on the bread for faster digestion.
Liquids
- Soup
Drinking a warm bowl of nutritious soup is a great way for a woman in labour to keep hunger at bay. Although the types of soups vary, vegetable or chicken soups are the best options especially when homemade. - Yoghurt
Apart from water, which is often allowed for mothers in labour, drinks such as yoghurt are also good at the early stages. The yoghurt helps keep the body hydrated and is also filling especially if the mum-to-be is thirsty and hungry.
