Probiotics During Pregnancy

For optimal health for both the expectant mother and her baby, consuming probiotics during pregnancy can be a game changer. Especially in the first trimester when many mothers struggle with pesky food aversions, food cravings, and morning sickness which risk sacrificing their diet and general well-being.

Pickles and ice-cream anyone? As wacky as it sounds, some theories are actually supporting the validity of this classic pregnancy cliché. Why? It turns out that it may be an internal signal for more probiotics. Since traditional pickles are fermented (many are simply brined these days), the expectant mother’s body may be attempting to access foods which will help the baby.

Why are Probiotics During Pregnancy Important?

Incorporating probiotics into a prenatal diet is smart for many reasons. During pregnancy, the taxing hormonal load on the body may cause excess stress to the digestive system. These powerful gut bacteria help support the mother’s healthy digestion and may also relieve common pregnancy related symptoms, such as diarrhea or constipation.

There’s also evidence that probiotics may also decrease the risk of gestational diabetes, gestational hypertension, and preeclampsia. Aside from a happier gut, probiotics during pregnancy are now said to benefit immune health, since the majority of our immunity is harbored in our gastrointestinal tract. This goes for baby too. It is well known that what mom ingests, the baby also absorbs. By boosting the good bugs in our gut, probiotics help protect baby against lowered immunity, allergies, and eczema.

What Probiotic-Rich Foods to Incorporate?

Fermented foods are a great source of natural probiotics, but choosing the right source is key. Although pickles are a pregnancy fan favorite, especially for the morning sick mamas, it may not be the best choice. Many leading brands of pickles sold in markets today are high in sodium, artificial colors and preservatives, which could cause harm to mom and baby. Look for other naturally sour foods, including lemons, sour candies, kimchi, and unpasteurized sauerkraut, which are all traditional natural remedies that many moms swear reduce nausea. Other probiotic-rich, plant-based products include cultured coconut yogurt, miso, coconut kefir, kombucha, and kvass.

Pregnant and still can’t shake the pickle hankering? Give wildbrine’s Dill & Garlic Sauerkraut a try. It’s rich in natural probiotics, 100% all natural (no funny stuff), and still packs the crave-worthy pickle flavor preggo’s will love!

While these variations of whole food probiotics are typically deemed safe for all, don’t hesitate to ask your doctor before making any changes to your diet, especially during pregnancy.

For more information, check out this website:
American Pregnancy Association