Preparing for Baby? Don’t Forget These Hospital Bag Snacks!
The excitement of preparing for your baby’s arrival is palpable, but amidst the nesting and packing, there’s one crucial thing that’s often overlooked: snacks! Whether you're in the throes of labor or recovering postpartum, having the right snacks on hand can make all the difference. Let’s take a look at why hospital bag snacks are essential, what makes a good snack, and what exactly to pack for both you and your birthing partner.
Why Hospital Bag Snacks Are Essential for Labor and Postpartum
Labor is unpredictable. It is a physically demanding process that can last for hours, sometimes even days, and energy levels can dip fast. Having snacks on hand gives you the flexibility to fuel up when you need it most. Even if you’re not actively snacking during labor itself, your partner might. After delivery, your body will need replenishment as you recover, and a carefully selected snack can provide that boost.
Postpartum, you’ll likely be focused on your baby, and you might forget to eat—or find yourself suddenly ravenously. That’s why having easy, energizing snacks packed in advance is a life-saver.
For the partner, having snacks readily available in the hospital bag ensures that they have something to help keep their energy levels up so they can support the birthing parent effectively. It's common for labor to be a long process, and having snacks at hand can help them stay alert and engaged throughout.
What Makes a Good Hospital Bag Snack for Delivery Day?
The best hospital bag snacks are those that are easy to eat, provide quick energy, and are non-perishable or have a long shelf life. Opt for snacks that are nutrient-dense to keep energy levels up. Good hospital bag snacks should also be easy to eat, non-messy, and provide quick energy and sustenance without being too heavy. If you're going for something sweet, keep it balanced with fiber or protein to avoid blood sugar crashes.
Think of snacks that can be eaten with one hand—because, let's face it, you might be holding your baby in the other hand soon enough! Keep snacks individually wrapped or in portable packaging for convenience, and aim for a variety of flavors so that you don’t get bored or overwhelmed by the same taste.
What Hospital Bag Snacks Should I Pack?
Here’s a comprehensive list of snacks you might want to pack for the big day, whether you’re in labor or recovering after delivery.
Snacks for the Birthing Parent:
Granola Bars or Protein Bars – A great go-to for long labor sessions. Look for options that have a balance of carbs, protein, and healthy fats to keep your energy steady. Consider choosing ones with minimal added sugar to avoid the dreaded sugar crash.
Nuts & Trail Mix – Packed with healthy fats and protein, this is perfect for when you need a quick bite. Choose trail mixes that include dried fruit and dark chocolate for a satisfying balance.
Fresh Fruit – Apples, bananas, or oranges are perfect for quick energy and hydration. A squeeze of fresh citrus can even help wake you up if you're feeling sluggish during long stretches of labor.
Crackers or Rice Cakes – Simple carbs like crackers or rice cakes are easy on the stomach and can give you quick energy. They’re also a nice contrast if you’ve been munching on heavier snacks.
Yogurt or Protein Smoothies – If you don’t want to eat something solid, try packing a protein-packed yogurt or smoothie. Many pre-made protein shakes are portable, filling, and will keep you hydrated.
Nut butter packs - Individual servings of nut butter can be paired with fruit or crackers for a satisfying snack.
Snacks for Your Partner:
Labor can last for hours, and your partner will need sustenance too. Don’t forget to pack snacks for them!
Sandwiches or Wraps – A hearty option that’s easy to eat while pacing the hallways or sitting by your side. Consider making wraps with lean meats, veggies, or even a veggie and hummus combo for a healthier alternative.
Energy Bars – Similar to what you’ll pack for yourself, a good energy or granola bar can keep your partner going when they’re feeling hungry. Pack a mix of sweet and savory options, so they have variety.
Fresh Fruit or Veggies – Don’t let your partner skip their vitamins! Some easy-to-carry fruit (think: apple slices or grapes) or crunchy veggies (like baby carrots or snap peas) will help them stay refreshed and energized.
Nuts and Dried Fruit – These are small, portable, and perfect for quick bites. Plus, they’re rich in protein and healthy fats, which will keep them full and focused.
Bottled Water and Hydration Drinks – Don’t forget the liquids! A partner can get just as dehydrated as the birthing parent during long hours of waiting. Bottled water, electrolyte drinks, or even a couple of flavored waters can be a nice break from plain old H2O.
How Many Snacks Should I Pack for Our Hospital Stay?
It's better to pack more snacks than you think you'll need, as the length of your labor and postpartum stay can be unpredictable. Aim to pack enough snacks to last through labor and the immediate postpartum period. A good rule of thumb is to pack at least two snacks per person for each day you expect to be in the hospital, plus a few extra for good measure. Having a variety of snacks ensures that you have options depending on what you feel like eating at any given time. Here’s a general guide for how many snacks to pack:
For the Birthing Parent: Pack around 5-7 different snacks. Consider having a couple of savory options (like crackers or nuts), 2-3 sweet options (fruit, protein bars, or trail mix), and a drink or smoothie.
For Your Partner: Pack 3-5 snacks. This can include a combination of something hearty (sandwich or wrap), light snacks (nuts, fruit), and hydration options.
Nutrient-dense snacks: The Key to Postpartum Recovery
Labor can be exhausting, and the postpartum period can be a whirlwind of feeding, recovering, and adjusting to life with a newborn. By choosing nutrient-dense, easy-to-eat snacks, you’ll keep your energy levels high, and you won’t have to worry about waiting for the hospital cafeteria or relying on hospital-provided meals (which, let’s face it, may not be what you’re craving in the moment). So, as you pack your bags for the big day, don’t forget to include some snacks that will make the experience a little more comfortable—both for you and your partner!
Have you packed your snacks yet? What’s your go-to hospital snack?
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