Know the Pros of PROTEIN for You and Your Baby
Protein for You
During pregnancy, expecting mothers need an additional 25 grams of protein, per day, per baby. Aside from nourishing and supporting your growing baby, protein also accumulates in the uterus, blood, placenta and breasts. You require the most protein in late pregnancy, when eating adequate amounts can be especially challenging.
Feeling Full on Less Food:
There’s not enough room for a full stomach because the growing babies take up too much space, especially during the last trimester. Protein is a Priority! When eating a meal or large snack is uncomfortable, you have options. Instead of avoiding food, or sacrificing nutrition, moms can enjoy protein dense foods. These include: UNJURY® Strawberry Banana Pudding Pops (10 grams of protein per popsicle) and UNJURY Chocolate Banana Smoothie (30 grams of protein per smoothie). For more delicious recipes visit our recipe section.
Heartburn:
Heartburn is very common during pregnancy, especially during the later stages. If you experience discomfort, eating smaller meals can help. Incorporating UNJURY into small meals and snacks helps ensure you are getting the protein you need for you and your baby.
Food Aversions:
If you experience food aversions, you’re not alone! During pregnancy, fifty percent of expecting mothers find they are not able to tolerate foods they once loved. You may also notice a heightened sense of taste, or smell. These changes can make your favorite protein-rich foods hard to stomach. UNJURY can be easily added to a variety of foods and beverages.
Constantly Hungry
You’re going to be hungry. Moms-to-be need to keep their body strong AND provide enough protein to their growing baby. Research shows that protein satisfies hunger longer, plus reaching for a protein-rich snack is a much healthier option than temporarily satisfying a growling stomach with foods that are high in sugar, carbohydrates, and fat. Snack smarter with UNJURY.
Protein for Your Baby
Growing babies need protein. This nutrient is found in every cell in your baby’s body. Protein is important to your baby’s growth and development – from their bones, brain, skin, muscles, fingers and toes, to their digestive, respiratory, and nervous and sensory (eyes, ears, smell, touch) systems. Your bundle of joy is growing and developing at a rapid pace. Protein is crucial for your baby’s growth, especially during the second and third trimesters.
How Much Protein Is Enough?
Most women need approximately 75-100 grams of protein every day.
Pregnant women and breast-feeding moms need an additional 25 grams of protein, which means your daily protein intake should be 100-125 grams.
If you’re expecting multiples, you need an additional 50 grams of protein each day, according to the National Academy of Medicine.
Of course, each mom is unique, so consult with your dietitian or call 1-800-517-5111 to speak with one of UNJURY's Registered Dietitians.
If you’re expecting twins or breastfeeding for two or more, your daily protein intake should be 125-155 grams.
Are You Really Eating for Two?
During pregnancy, you may feel like you should be “eating for two” (or three, or more). This doesn’t mean doubling up on portions, or eating more meals throughout the day. It’s important for you and the health of your baby that you pay attention to the protein.
Eating twice or doubling your portions is just adding double doses of extra sugars, fats, and carbs that contribute to unnecessary weight gain. Your baby needs nutrients and protein for healthy development. Instead of consuming double your daily portions, find ways to add protein.