Pregnant moms might need different kinds of nutrition sources in each stage of pregnancy period. When your EDD is approaching, you might probably start to prepare for the transition into labour and delivery. 

The common problem that most pregnant women are anxious about would be the discomfort and the health of the baby during the delivery process. The basic nutrients that support you in the labor process are the protein and carbohydrate. Other than that, there are some particular foods that would help you from different aspects which all aid a smoother delivery process. 

1. Sweet Potatoes or Yams

Sweet potatoes are the source of potassium and iron, which are the nutrients that are often depleted during labour and delivery. Iron acts as an important source for hemoglobin in the blood which affects the oxygen supply to the cell and the organs. 

While the yams consumption can reduce the nerve inflammation, it indirectly reduces the unnatural pain during labor. You can mix the roasted split potato, vegies, salsa and pulled rotisserie chicken breast, here you go your wholesome cuisine!

2. Dates

Something that you would definitely love to hear – eat dates would help for an easier birth! It actually helps to induce labour naturally. By consuming dates few weeks before delivery, you would probably have more dilation and shorter times of early labour than those who do not. Since it increases cervical ripening, it reduces the need for medical labour induction which dates eater has a higher percentage of spontaneous labour. 

3. Melon

Maintaining hydration is important at the end of your pregnancy. This is due to the fact that you and your baby need H20 to support daily needs, while at the same time reduce your risk of low amniotic fluid level. So, melon would be the star here as it contains a high level of electrolyte mineral that can increase the amount of H20 absorbed by double. The melon foods that you can include in your daily meals are the cucumber and watermelon. 

4. Nuts and seeds

Introducing you the source of multinutrients – nuts and seeds. There are sorts of nuts and seeds you can add into your meal, such as the sesame, sunflower seeds and almond. Sesame seeds have a good amount of zinc and copper. Sunflower seeds are rich in Vitamin E which is beneficial to tissue softness and progesterone function. 

Other than these, almonds are also rich in Vitamin E, minerals and the phytochemicals that can control blood sugar so it is great to those with gestational diabetes. And you should be noted that low in Vitamin E has the risk in preterm labour. 

5. Yoghurts

Another great feed would be the yogurts! It contains sugar and carbohydrates that can boost your energy when preparing for labour. Also, it gives you the energy to bring your baby to the world during the labour. So, you may keep your refrigerator stocked with yogurt when the EDD becomes closer. It would be a good fit to serve yogurts as your daily dessert.

6. Fruits

Likewise, fruits are a good source of quick energy as they contain natural sugar. Out of all sorts of fruits, bananas are known as the best pre-labour fruits. Banana helps with hyaluronic acid production which is essential for the cervix ripening. You can also make them into smoothies if you want! However, try to avoid consuming citrus fruit to reduce the uncomfortable feeling if you vomit during labour. 

Your daily meal before you get into labour can be awesome too! You can have a different mix-and-match of the beneficial foods so you would less likely to feel bored towards your daily meal. After the labor and delivery, it’s time for your confinement meal. Delicious dishes like green papaya soup and vinegar pork trotter are waiting for you! Keep yourself fresh and nourished so your baby does too!

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