April 26, 2021

Do your pregnancy cravings include sugary carbonated beverages? Don’t worry, you are perfectly normal! Most women’s cravings lean toward the unhealthy. Although soda every now and then may not be the worst thing expecting moms can reach for, women who want healthier alternatives do have options. Here are a few suggestions that will still give you the fizz and flavor you hanker for – just healthier.

Sparkling Mineral Water

Staying hydrated is important for expecting moms, but sometimes plain old water seems boring. Sparkling mineral water gives you the effervescence of a soda without the sugars, artificial coloring, and flavors. Sparkling mineral water comes from a spring and contains salts and sulfur compounds that create natural carbonation. And it has zero calories.

Seltzer

If you are trying to kick your soda habit, seltzer is another way to satisfy your craving. Seltzer’s carbonation comes from added carbon dioxide, not from spring-like sparkling mineral water. If it’s sweet you crave, add a little flavor to your seltzer with some healthy fruit slices or a dash of your favorite all-natural, no-sugar-added juice.

Both sparkling mineral water and plain seltzer have zero calories. Still, several bottled and canned options on the market contain artificial flavors and added sugar, so make sure you read the labels. You can also make your own carbonated water at home by infusing water with carbon dioxide using a soda siphon or soda machine.

Infused Water

Maybe you’re in the mood for sweetness, but not the bubbles. Infused waters are a great, healthy choice to keep you hydrated. And they are so simple to make. Just add your favorite fruits, vegetables, and even herbs to a pitcher, pour plain water (or use sparkling or seltzer if you like) over the produce, and then chill for two to three hours. Yum! The best part is you can eat the fruit once the water is all gone! Try these recipes from Eating Bird Food for Strawberry Thyme, Rosemary Raspberry, and Blueberry Basil infused water, or come up with your own creations.

Cold Brewed Green Tea

Cold brewed green tea (or hot if you prefer) has slightly less caffeine than regular tea and is rich in antioxidants, which is especially important for expecting moms.¹ There is no shortage of off-the-shelf bottles of green tea in the supermarket, but the healthiest way to consume iced green tea is to cold brew it yourself by steeping green tea leaves in cold filtered water. You can store it in the refrigerator for 24 hours. You can also add in your favorite herbs for extra flavor.

Juice

One hundred percent pure fruit juice is another alternative to soda when you crave something sweet. Juices contain calories and naturally occurring sugars, so sip in moderation. Don’t forget to read your labels and try to avoid fruit juices that aren’t all-natural.

 

Prenate® Vitamin Family
This post is brought to you by the Prenate® Vitamin Family, a line of prescription prenatal supplements designed to enhance preconception, prenatal, and postpartum nutrition in women. Talk with your doctor about how taking a daily prescription prenatal or postnatal vitamin could help support a healthy pregnancy and postpartum wellness.