Are you wondering what to drink while pregnant first trimester? Pregnancy is a special time for every woman, and it’s essential to take care of oneself to ensure a healthy pregnancy and baby. One important aspect to consider during pregnancy is the type of drinks to consume, especially during the first trimester. What to drink during first trimester? – Check this article from WFMC.
During first trimester, drinking plain water can be difficult with all the nausea and morning sickness. Your body is going through a lot of changes and your cravings might seem all over the place. However, it’s important to make sure you’re getting enough of the key nutrients and stay hydrated to keep you and your baby healthy during this critical period in your pregnancy.
Related: What to eat when nothing sounds good pregnant?
What to drink while pregnant first trimester besides water?
Besides water, there are several other healthy and nutritious drinks that are safe and recommended during pregnancy, such as:
1. Milk: Milk is an excellent source of calcium, which is essential for the growth and development of your baby’s bones. It is a great option for moms to be to add some calcium and protein to their diet. All you need to make sure is that the milk is pasteurized appropriately. And if you are lactose intolerant, check other dairy alternatives like soy milk, almond milk and more.
You can also opt for low fat or fat free milk for long term health benefits. You can read about all kinds of milk that you can choose to drink during your pregnancy.
2. 100% Fruit Juices: While eating whole fruit is recommended, pregnant woman can consume a glass of Fruit juice a day. They are a good source of vitamins and minerals that you need during pregnancy. However, it’s important to choose 100% fruit juice and avoid drinks with added sugar. You can safely drink all fruit juices unless recommended otherwise by your physician.
I preferred blending my own fruit juices in the blender as it is thoroughly washed and you can choose preferred fruits. Nutri bullet was of great help to help me with blending fruits – not to mention it helped post delivery to make baby foods as well. If you are buying from store, choose to buy pasteurized juices with no or low sugar added. Fruit juices are high in calories, so be mindful of the quantities.
3. Herbal Teas: Herbal teas, such as ginger and peppermint, can help to ease nausea and other digestive issues that are common during pregnancy. Avoiding teas that contain caffeine is best during pregnancy. You can choose different kinds of herbal teas as per your preference. If you are looking for an alternative to water and wondering what to drink during first trimester, here is a homemade herbal tea recipe that you can try which is one of my favorite
- 1 cup water
- 1 clove
- 1 inch cinnamon
- 1 inch ginger
- 1 cardamom
Add all the above ingredients to boiling water, boil it for a few minutes and enjoy your herbal tea warm or cold.
4. Electrolyte Drinks: Electrolyte drinks can help replenish lost fluids and minerals, especially if you’re feeling fatigued or experiencing headaches. Choose a drink that is low in sugar and avoid sports drinks that contain high levels of caffeine. Gatorade or powerade are better choices but choose to drink in moderation as they contain high amounts of sugar. They help replenish your energy instantly and also help with morning sickness.
Related: Check out these simple hacks to help fight pregnancy discomfort
5. Vegetable Juices: Vegetable juices are a good source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that are essential for a healthy pregnancy. Vegetable juices are a better choice over fruits as they are low in sugar. Adding carrots and beetroots make the juice naturally sweet and also has high health benefits. Try making your own veggie blend after washing the vegetables thoroughly. Choose pasteurized vegetable juices that are low in sugar if you are buying it from the store.
6. Flavored water or Infusions – This is a great option if you are wondering what to drink during first trimester besides water, try infusing fruits or vegetables in the water. This adds natural flavors to water and makes it easier to drink. You can choose to add fruit slices like lemon or orange to avoid morning sickness. Other options like cucumbers, mint, berries also give a great flavor to water and makes it refreshing to drink.
7. Coconut water – This one was my favorite. I drank coconut water for entire 9 months for both my pregnancies. When you are looking for what to drink during first trimester besides water, choose coconut water as they have natural electrolytes in them and a flavor which can make you feel refreshed. For better results, refrigerate the coconut water and drink it cold. If you are struggling with morning sickness, sipping on coconut water gives to energy to survive your morning sickness during first trimester.
8.Fruit/ vegetable smoothies – Adding yogurt or milk to fresh fruits and vegetables and blending them to make a smoothie is the best option when you wonder what to drink during first trimester besides water. You can make all kinds of fruit/ vegetable smoothies. You can start your day with green vegetables smoothie choosing to be healthy. You can add ginger to the blend to help with morning sickness.
If you have some kind of aversion, choose the safe foods like berries or banana smoothie that helps replenish energy that you need to survive first trimester.
9.Mocktails – When it comes to making mocktails during pregnancy, it’s important to use fresh, high-quality ingredients and to avoid any ingredients that may be harmful, such as artificial sweeteners. Pregnant women should also be careful about the amount of caffeine they consume, as too much can be harmful to both mother and baby.
Mocktails offer a range of benefits for pregnant women. They are hydrating, which is important for both mother and baby. They can also provide essential vitamins and nutrients, such as vitamin C and antioxidants, that can help boost the immune system. Additionally, mocktails are low in sugar, which is a concern for many women during pregnancy.
Some popular mocktail recipes that pregnant women can enjoy include:
- Virgin Margarita: A classic mocktail made with fresh lime juice, sugar, and a splash of soda.
- Fruit Punch: A mix of fresh fruit juices and sparkling water, garnished with fresh fruit slices.
- Shirley Temple: A sweet and fruity mocktail made with grenadine, ginger ale, and a splash of lemon-lime soda.
- Iced Tea: A simple and refreshing mocktail made with iced tea and a squeeze of lemon.
- Lemonade: A sweet and tangy mocktail made with fresh lemon juice, sugar, and sparkling water.
10. Decaf Coffee/ Tea – Decaf coffee and tea can be a safe option for pregnant women who want to limit their caffeine intake. During pregnancy, it’s recommended to consume no more than 200 milligrams of caffeine per day, which is equivalent to about one 12-ounce cup of coffee. Decaf coffee and tea contain a minimal amount of caffeine, typically less than 2 milligrams per cup, making it a suitable alternative for pregnant women who still want to enjoy their favorite hot beverages. However, it’s important to note that decaf coffee and tea can still contain small amounts of caffeine, so it’s best to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.
11. Seltzers or spritzers – Seltzers or spritzers can be a healthy and refreshing drink option if you looking what to drink while pregnant first trimester besides water. Seltzers are carbonated water with a hint of natural flavor, and spritzers are made by combining seltzers with fruit juice or other ingredients. These drinks are a low-calorie and sugar-free alternative to sugary sodas and are a good source of hydration during pregnancy.
Seltzers and spritzers also contain no caffeine, making them a safe choice for pregnant women who want to limit their caffeine intake. However, it’s important to note that some seltzers and spritzers may contain artificial sweeteners, which are controversial and may be harmful in large amounts. Pregnant women should consult with their healthcare provider and choose seltzers or spritzers made with natural ingredients to ensure the safety and health of both mother and baby.
12. Soups –
Soup can be a healthy and nourishing option for pregnant women, as it is often a good source of essential vitamins and minerals such as iron, calcium, and folate. It can also provide hydration, which is important during pregnancy. If wondering what to drink while pregnant first trimester, soup is the best choice if you like warm beverages.
However, pregnant women should be cautious of certain ingredients in soup that may not be safe for them and their developing baby. For example, soups with high levels of salt or MSG (monosodium glutamate) should be avoided as they can cause water retention and high blood pressure. Also, soups that contain raw or under cooked eggs, raw or under cooked meat, or unpasteurized dairy products should also be avoided as they may contain harmful bacteria that can cause food-borne illness.
It is recommended for pregnant women to opt for homemade soups made with fresh ingredients, or to choose canned soups that are low in salt and made with pasteurized ingredients. Vegetable-based soups, broths, and clear soups can be a healthy option, as they provide hydration and essential nutrients without added salt or other harmful ingredients.
It’s important to keep in mind that it’s always best to consult with your doctor before making any changes to your diet or drinking habits during pregnancy.
Is Gatorade safe during pregnancy?
Gatorade and other sports drinks can be consumed during pregnancy, but it’s important to be mindful of the ingredients and sugar content. Pregnant women need to be hydrated, and Gatorade can provide hydration, especially during exercise or in hot weather. However, Gatorade contains high levels of sugar and electrolytes, which can be beneficial for athletes and those who engage in intense physical activity but may not be necessary for the average pregnant woman.
Excessive sugar intake during pregnancy can increase the risk of gestational diabetes and excessive weight gain. It’s recommended to limit added sugars and choose water as the primary source of hydration. If a pregnant woman feels she needs the electrolytes in Gatorade, she can opt for a lower sugar version or dilute it with water. It is best to consult with physician with the choice.
What should you not drink in first trimester?
During the first trimester of pregnancy, it’s important to be mindful of what you drink as some substances can be harmful to the developing fetus. The following drinks should be avoided during the first trimester:
- Alcohol: Alcohol can cause harm to the developing fetus and increase the risk of birth defects, miscarriage, and stillbirth. It’s recommended to avoid alcohol completely during pregnancy.
- Unpasteurized juice: Unpasteurized juices can contain harmful bacteria, such as E. coli and salmonella, which can cause food-borne illness.
- Caffeine: Caffeine can cross the placenta and affect the developing fetus. It’s recommended to limit caffeine intake to no more than 200 milligrams per day during pregnancy.
- Herbal tea: Some herbal teas, such as nettle, dong quai, and red raspberry leaf, can have hormonal effects and may be harmful during the first trimester. It’s best to avoid herbal teas unless they have been specifically recommended by a healthcare provider.
- Soft drinks: Soft drinks contain high levels of sugar and artificial sweeteners, which can be harmful during pregnancy. It’s best to avoid soft drinks and choose water or unsweetened beverages instead.
In conclusion, during the first trimester of pregnancy, it’s important to avoid harmful substances and choose healthy, nutrient-rich drinks to support the health and development of the fetus. Consult with a healthcare provider for personalized recommendations on what to drink during first trimester besides water.