I was fortunate to welcome my second bubba into the world just over 2 weeks ago, which I feel incredibly grateful for. For the last 9 months, with a baby on board, I have been focused on nourishing my own hub!

My husband James has been encouraging me to share my pregnancy journey with the Nourishing Hub for some time and now that I'm on the other side I thought I would share a few things that worked for me. I was lucky to have a healthy pregnancy and very quick labour resulting in a bonny baby girl weighing a hefty 4.39kgs - surely it must have something to do with all those superfoods :)

People often ask me what I add to my diet during pregnancy, so I thought I'd share my regular preggie smoothie along with some of the essential pregnancy nutrients. I like to try out the products I have on the Nourishing Hub and would only recommend them if I truly believe they have genuine health benefits.  Please note - this is my personal recommendation and it is not a substitute for any pregnancy supplements recommended by your doctor. Always consult your doctor or practitioner for your recommended pregnancy diet.

Ingredients to make for a highly nutritious pregnancy smoothie:

Synergy Super Greens is a synergistic blend of nature’s most nutrient-dense green superfoods, Spirulina, Chlorella, Barley Grass and Wheat Grass. This combination provides women with many of the essential supplements for pregnancy. The mix of greens provides a high chlorophyll blend full of folate, vitamin C and Protein. The Chlorella and Barley grass are very good sources of iron and calcium – all of which are essential nutrients required during pregnancy.

I also alternated my greens with Shakti's Superfood blend throughout my pregnancy, which is also a very high-quality superfood blend. It does contain a small amount of maca powder, which some say to avoid during pregnancy (while other research says to include it) so this one is a personal choice.

Nordic Natural Fish Oil Omega 3s or Prenatal Capsules (or Udos DHA Blend for Vegetarians)
Omega-3s for Pregnancy & Lactation
EPA and DHA—the omega-3 essential fatty acids in fish oil—are an important part of a balanced diet, especially during pregnancy, when a woman's demand for DHA in particular increases substantially. DHA comprises approximately 20% of the fatty acid in the brain's cerebral cortex. DHA is among the most important nutrients for pregnant and lactating women. It is said that DHA consumed by expectant mothers sets the foundation for her baby's developing brain, eyes, and nervous system.

DHA also provides mood and nerve support for new mothers in the difficult weeks following her baby's birth. Omega–3 fish oil is a safe, pure, and effective way to promote the health of both mothers and babies, and is endorsed by the American Pregnancy Association. More information is on our recent Blog about Omegas.

Pregnancy Superfood Blend Gen 1.29
This is a carefully balanced natural formula of fresh ground nuts and seeds, full of easily digestible protein, loaded with fibre, omega 3 and 6 EFA's, vitamins and minerals. It is high in B group vitamins, folate and micronutrients. The blend contains inactive brewers yeast - which provides an excellent source of B vitamins as well as minerals – such as iron, potassium and chromium. It's worth noting the brewer's yeast does give this blend a distinct flavour.

Other Super Foods I loved during Pregnancy:  

Coconut Oil
I added a lot of coconut oil to my cooking and to also to my smoothies. Coconut oil is a rich source of Lauric Acid, which is a medium-chain fatty acid also found in breast milk. Coconut Oil is a wonderful immunity booster for mothers and their foetus and newborns. It is also antifungal, antiviral and antibacterial. It is said to help with morning sickness and can be used on the belly to help with stretch-marks. My favourites were Coconut Magic, which is really luxurious coconut oil and Loving Earth Coconut Butter.

Hemp Seeds 
Hemp seeds are an excellent source of protein, fibre and essential omega fatty acids, also containing all the essential amino acids. They are an excellent vegetarian source of nutrients for pregnant women. Again you can add this to your smoothie or sprinkle it on salads or breakfast cereals. I used Made in Hemp Seeds or Made in Hemp Oil.

I have included some of my other favourites in the pregnancy smoothie below - i.e. kale

 Nourishing Hub Pregnancy Smoothie Pack:

• 1-2 bananas (good fatigue fighter and rich in potassium and B vitamins)
• 1 kiwifruit (high in vitamin C – a great antioxidant plus helps iron absorption)
• Optional 1 mango or 1 C of berries (mango is high in folate and berries are high in vitamin C)
• ½ C milk (or rice milk/almond milk or coconut water)
• ½ C of natural organic yogurt – a probiotic and a good source of iodine.
• 1 C of raw kale – good source of vitamin A and C. Vitamin A is required for embryonic growth as well as postpartum tissue repair for Mum)
• 2 tsp Synergy Supergreens
• 1 T Gen129 Pregnancy Superfood
• 1 tsp fish oil or Udos DHA
• 2 teas of chia seeds

Optional - a few spoons of coconut oil and a few spoons of hemp seeds.
Blend all ingredients in a blender - adjust to desired texture with your chosen liquid.

If you have particular super foods or supplements you loved during pregnancy, we would love to hear more about them!

Have a lovely weekend!

Simone