With pregnancy comes new eating and drinking habits. Those of you who are used to enjoying a hot cup of coffee every morning may be seriously stumped as to how much is allowed, and/or what to replace it with. I myself was not a habitual coffee drinker, but I did enjoy a cup now and then. Decaf coffee does not appeal to me as it is decaffeinated by a process involving chlorine, so I was more interested in a naturally decaffeinated beverage. Colas are obviously a no-no due to caffeine content as well, so what is the pregnant woman to do? Try these flavorful beverages to break up the monotony, as well as get your much-needed daily fluids:
Naturally Decaf Tea – My favorite tea was and is Tazo Passion (Decaf). It’s a very fruity, flowery and full-bodied tea flavored with hibiscus flowers and a hint of cinnamon. Not only is it lovely hot, but it makes an amazing iced tea, almost more like a juice! You could also try a citrus or chamomile tea for a quick stomach-settler, and of course there are always teas designed specifically for pregnancy, such as red raspberry or nettles. I would actually brew those two along with Passion, since they are bitter in flavor.
Teeccino – I drank this in place of my coffee, as I’ve mentioned before. It may take some getting used to, but after I added my flavored creamer it more or less tasted like a cup of coffee to me. I am no coffee aficionado though, so you’ll have to try it yourself and decide. It comes in several different flavors and is considered an herbal coffee as it’s made with the carob bean along with other herbs.
Pumpkin Juice – I got creative one inspired day and brewed up this concoction you’d find straight out of Harry Potter. If you’re familiar with the story you may know that Harry and his friends often indulge in pumpkin juice with their meals. I happen to love anything involved with pumpkin, as does my daughter, and one day we halved a pumpkin, cooked it and blended the flesh with spices, some water and a bit of apple cider. It was absolutely delicious chilled or hot!
Vitamin Water – I enjoyed this when I lost 40 pounds exercising my brains out after having my first child. I enjoyed it during pregnancy and I even enjoyed it when giving birth. Far better-tasting than Gatorade in my opinion, and with far less sugar than sodas and concentrated juice, I don’t feel guilty drinking it and it’s a great pick-me-up as well.
Whatever you do reach for when you’re thirsty, make sure it’s more water than anything else as that’s what your baby needs to develop cells, blood and vital organs.
See also:
Let’s Talk Pregnancy – Ten Awesome, Easy Snack Options
The Let’s Talk Pregnancy Blog Top Ten: Prenatal Eating Tips
Let’s Talk About Keeping a Meal Diary