8 Protein Supplements for Pregnant Women
Expecting a baby? Congratulations! It looks like you are excited and nervous at the same time! Well, since you are awaiting the arrival of your little one, we would advise you to be extra cautious about your diet.
Keep a check on your protein and carbohydrate intake specifically. If you have an unbalanced diet, or you are ingesting little protein and too many carbohydrates, then the baby might be at risk. So, eat well and forget about adding kilos, because a healthy mom gives birth to healthy baby.
This blog is for all the would-be-mommies with detailed information about protein intake and eight protein supplements that can be consumed during pregnancy.
Amount of Protein Women Need During Pregnancy
Protein intake is a mandate when you conceive. It keeps both mother and the baby healthy. If including protein in the diet is not possible, then protein powders could be considered as an option.
But, you need to take a very well regulated amount of protein. Too less protein could result in preterm births and smaller babies, while too much protein could cause a different set of problems altogether.
According to the Institutes of Medicine, it is recommended that a pregnant woman gets 10% to 35% of the calories from protein. While a few other reports suggest that 15 to 18% is sufficient. If you wish to get an idea, then consider your weight in kgs and multiply it by 1.5. You will get the approximate grams of protein per day. As your weight changes during pregnancy, this number will also change.
Calculation matters even more because your weight gain during pregnancy is sure to have a more significant impact on your baby’s weight and future disease risk. So, along with your protein intake, manage your calorie intake too.
Listed below are 8 Best Protein Powder for Pregnant Women.
Note: During women pregnancy ingest protein only when your doctor recommends it.
1. Bluebonnet Whey Protein Powder
This is a 100% natural whey protein and has undenatured whey protein isolate, natural vanilla flavor, non-GMO sunflower lecithin and MCT oil. Entirely organic, Blue Bonnet is rich in proteins and nutrients for both you and the baby. Made from grass-fed cows, the Whey Protein Isolate is chemicals and fillers free protein powder. The fast-acting protein tastes good and digests well. Made with quality ingredients, the protein supplement does not contain artificial hormones that can trigger any changes in the body. Its organic nature makes it one of the most trusted brands amongst expecting women.
2. Protinex Mama
Protinex Mama is a tasty combination of milk and soy protein along with essential nutrients for pregnant women. Protinex Mama is the most selling protein powder in the USA & Indian market and comprises of 85% protein and 15% other minerals, beneficial fats and carbs. It’s a low-cost protein supplement substitute for the ones who purchase highly-priced protein powders. Protinex Mama powder is safe for pregnant women as it is easily digestible. The protein in this particular supplement is in hydrolyzed form, and hence is quickly absorbed by the body. Not only this, Protinex Mama improves immunity and stamina too.
3. Tera’s Organic Whey Protein
Extremely low in lactose, Tera’s Organic Whey Protein is easily digestible. It does not contain any artificial ingredients and is certified non-GMO as it is sourced from grass-fed cows. It is concocted with only two ingredients: organic dairy whey protein concentrate and organic sunflower lecithin.
Tera’s Organic Whey Protein health benefits include – Reduction in gut inflammation, improved cognitive performance, a minimal fat buildup in the liver, and fewer spikes in glucose levels that is beneficial during pregnancy. Available in a variety of flavors like blueberry, vanilla, and stevia, this protein mix is certified organic and contains minimal ingredients. One serving of Tera’s Organic Whey provides 20 grams of protein.
4. Amway Nutrilite Protein Powder
This is another favorite in the Indian market. Derived from milk and soy, Amway Nutrilite is prepared organically and is best protein powder for pregnant women. Amway nutrilite protein powder is also beneficial for those pregnant women who do not consume enough dairy products, or other high protein foods. Since the protein supplement is plant-based, cholesterol and lactose-free it is also suitable for people with diabetes, vegetarians, and vegans.
5. Now Foods Whey Proteins
Now foods whey protein supplement does not contain any aspartame, sucralose, or acesulfame-k. It is unflavoured and derived from concentrated organic milk. Processed under low heat, all its beneficial nutrients are untampered. If pregnant women are unable to get the adequate amount of nutrients from whole foods during pregnancy, then go for Now Foods Whey Protein as it is known to be at par with protein sources like say beef, milk, or soy.
6. Jay Robb Whey Protein Powder
Jay Robb Whey Protein powder is sourced from cows that are not treated with artificial hormones. The protein supplement does not contain any artificial sweetener or extra sugars that would trigger weight gain and lead to gestational diabetes. Available in 2 flavors i.e., chocolate and vanilla you can blend it to make a lip-smacking shake. Consult your doctor for dosage and frequency before you consume it.
7. Shakeology Protein Shake
Do consult your doctor before including Shakeology Protein Shake in your diet because, some cases have reported complications and premature babies. Shakeology Protein Shake is an extremely healthy protein supplement for pregnant women and nursing moms as it is an ALL NATURAL Super Foods shake with over 70 different fruits & veggies, and no artificial ingredients. If taken in right proportion, it can prove extremely beneficial.
8. Raw Organic Whey Protein
The Raw Organic Whey Protein is USDA. Primarily recommended by doctors, it is made up of organic whey which is directly derived from milk. The USP of this protein supplement is not just the certification, but also its single ingredient, i.e., organic whey protein made from the milk of grass-fed Jersey cows.