You’ll have heard many stories – good and bad – about giving birth. Most mothers find being prepared for any eventuality is a good start and ‘packing your bag’ is part of the ritual. Labour is hard work and you might feel hungry and thirsty, especially in the early stages, so having a variety of suitable and appetising snacks to see you through is a good idea.

Consuming energy-rich foods and drinks is important in preventing ketosis, which is when the body starts to break down its own fatty stores for energy.  As labour can be physically exhausting, potentially drawn out and may see you sleepless for some time, regularly topping up on food and drink is key - in fact it’s a good excuse to eat high energy and high sugar foods and drinks as these will boost your energy levels. 

Eating small portions regularly is preferable to having one large meal as this will help sustain energy levels for longer.  Foods high in fat can be heavy on the stomach and could make you feel nauseous so are best avoided. In the early stages of labour carbohydrate rich foods provide a slow release of energy and good options include bread, pasta, potatoes, bananas and rice. Snack ideas include:

• Sandwiches
• Toast (banana on toast is a carbohydrate rich snack)
• Pasta with your favourite sauce or filling (avoid creamy toppings) or pasta salad
• Baked potatoes or potato salad
• Rice pudding (the cans are ideal and come in several different sizes so can be easily tucked into your bag)
• Muesli or cereal bars
• Crackers
• Dried fruit
• Breakfast cereal with yoghurt and fruit at any time of the day!

Although the energy boost from sugary foods and drinks won’t sustain you for as long as carbohydrate rich foods, they’re easy to eat, light on the stomach and may be just what you’re craving especially as labour progresses. Ideal sugar-rich foods include:

• Lollies (jellybeans and jelly babies are an extra good source of glucose)
• Chocolate or chocolate bars
• Biscuits
• Soft drink (although some women find fizzy drinks can regurgitate)
• Fruit juices (some women may find these too acidic)
• Cordials and fruit extract drinks mixed with water.

Delivery rooms are frequently hot and combined with the physical exertion you will no doubt feel thirsty at some stage. Water is always a winner so try and regularly sip some during your labour. Buying a bottle with a sipper top is a good idea to prevent spills. 

Maintain rehydration and electrolyte balance by drinking Lucozade or other sports drinks such as Powerade or MiZone. These drinks are quickly absorbed and come in a variety of flavours. You may find you loose your appetite in the later stage of labour, which is when sports drinks or Lucozade can become important for boosting energy levels.

Years ago women were routinely starved during labour in case a general anaesthetic was required for a caesarean and the associated risk of regurgitation and inhalation into the lungs.  The risk has reduced over time, however if you know you require a caesarean prior to entering labour discuss whether you should eat and drink with your Lead Maternity Carer.

So stock up on a variety of snacks and drinks (a great excuse to buy your favourite lollies) and remember to regularly discuss what is suitable with your doctor or midwife as you progress through labour.

Endorsed by our New World Nutritionist  ||   Proudly Partnering with Parents Centre

Thinking about antenatal classes? Parents Centre run excellent Childbirth Education Classes throughout New Zealand. Contact your local centre or go to www.parentscentre.org.nz for details.
 

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