Is Women’s Best Protein Safe During Pregnancy

Recommended Protein Consumption When Pregnant

Are protein powders okay for pregnant women, and what ingredients should I avoid?

Research suggests the average woman under 65 years of age requires 47-48 grams of protein per day. The same research found pregnant women in the second and third trimester need considerably more protein with 64.6 grams per day being recommended in the second trimester and 70 grams per day recommended in the third trimester .

Another study titled Protein and Amino Acid Requirements during Pregnancy, concluded a greater protein intake was required during pregnancy. During early gestation, 79 grams of protein per day was advised. This works out as 14% of daily calories. And during late gestation 108 grams of protein per day was recommended which works out as 17% of daily calories. The study also stated animal studies suggested the need for the essential amino acids threonine, lysine, isoleucine, and tryptophan are increased toward later stages of pregnancy, but not in the same proportion to protein requirement as during early gestation .

Although both research papers differ in the extent of protein consumption during pregnancy both agree, protein should be increased during pregnancy. And protein requirements increase over the course of the pregnancy. If you need any advice on the amount of protein you should take during each stage of your pregnancy you should consult with a medical professional.

Does Protein Powder Increase Weight During Pregnancy

Protein powder by itself does not increase weight gain in pregnancy.

Excessive consumption of calories is the biggest cause of weight gain.

So what should you do?

It is important that you only increase your caloric intake by about 400-500 calories per day to support your growing baby.

If you consume more than 2200-2400 calories per day, then adding protein powder on top of that can certainly increase your weight.

Whey Fantastic 100% Pure Grass Fed Whey Protein

Whey Fantastic promotes their blend of whey protein isolate, hydrolysate, and concentrate as perfect for managing weight and enhancing muscle growth. But its also handy for pregnant women who want to boost protein in their diet.

Each serving contains 25 g of protein with only 1 g of fat and 1 g of carbs. We feel this is one of the best protein powders out there. Add this to your daily protein shake and consume it.

The whey comes from grass-fed cows, which are hormone-free. There are no artificial sweeteners or flavoring.

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Is Protein Powder Safe During Breastfeeding

Yes, protein powders are safe during breastfeeding, but it’s important to check the nutrients label before just choosing any supplement. I’ll get to some information about ingredients that you should avoid below, but generally speaking, these products tend to be safe.

One of the better options is whey protein, as long as you don’t have any dairy allergies.

For most women, their bodies may find it easier to absorb than many other types of protein. Especially in the weeks after childbirth, it may be an advantage to not put as much strain on the digestive system.

So, with all this talk of protein amounts for pregnant and breastfeeding women, you’re probably wondering how you can actually work all that out.

Let me introduce you to a little trick.

Baby Booster Prenatal Protein Powder

Ashley

This protein powder by Baby Booster comes in a range of sizes from individual packets that are great for a snack-on-the-go to large one pounds tubs. You can choose from Kona mocha, vanilla, berry, or pina colada flavors. Health Ambition lists it as one of their top choices.

Things to Keep in Mind

Each serving is rich in 20 grams of whey protein. It also contains Vitamin B6 which has been shown to reduce the symptoms of morning sickness in many individuals.

This powder is completely caffeine free. It is also gluten free which is ideal for suffers from gluten intolerance. It contains no soy or soy products and is made from entirely non-GMO protein.

You can mix this powder with water or milk. It tastes great warm or cold. If you are a coffee drinker in the morning and suffering serious coffee withdrawals every morning then you will love the Kona mocha powder. Serve it hot in the morning and you will swear that you are enjoying a cup of coffee.

Unlike typical protein powders, Baby Booster Prenatal Protein Powder contains DHA. The DHA is entirely vegetable sourced and does not come from any fish products. Fish sourced DHA can be dangerous because it often contains harmful heavy metals such as mercury.

This product does contain valuable prenatal vitamins but it is not intended for use as your sole source of prenatal vitamins. It is just considered an added bonus.

Whos it Best for?

This product is designed for use before, during and after pregnancy.

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When Is The Best Time To Drink A Protein Shake

Women may supplement their diet with a protein shake at any point throughout the day, however, there are recommendations on how to optimize the timing of these shakes in order to experience the full realm of health benefits and maximize their effect.

It is generally advised to use a fast-absorbing protein powder within 30 minutes to an hour after exercising, whereas a slow-absorbing protein power should be taken before going to bed or upon waking.

The best fast-absorbing protein is whey isolate, however, women who are vegan or vegetarian may use pea protein instead as it contains leucine, isoleucine, and valine to promote muscle-building and maintenance.

Slower-absorbing proteins, such as casein or other blended vegan proteins, are best taken outside of the training window to promote satiety and extend healing throughout the night while you sleep.

Can Pregnant Women Drink Protein Shakes

Unless specifically advised by your doctor, many protein powders are safe for pregnant women. Again, you need to consult your doctor first.

But because protein powders are simply dried, ground whole foods in powder food, they are generally safe. As mentioned earlier, many doctors actually advise their patients to drink protein shakes if they are lacking in protein or nutrition.

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Read The Nutrition Labels To Get Quality Ingredients

When considering a protein shake during pregnancy, labels need to be read to make sure that all of the ingredients in the shake are deemed safe for those who are expecting. After all, the last thing that mothers-to-be want to do is consume something that could cause complications to their pregnancy, especially when the intention was to be healthy.

According to Eat This, Not That, reading labels of protein shakes needs to be done so closely to make sure that there are not any added herbs that are not regulated by the FDA included. This is because there is not enough research done on most to conclusively be able to state whether they are safe or not during pregnancy.

Women also need to look out for protein shakes that are packed with vitamins if they are currently taking a prenatal vitamin and other supplements, so as to not to overdo and get more of the daily recommended amount.

Other things to look for in protein drinks when pregnant, per the publication are caffeine and artificial sweeteners that could potentially cause complications for the pregnancy.

Before incorporating protein shakes into a diet, healthcare professionals should be consulted so that they can give pregnant women the most updated information about the benefits and risks of consuming them during pregnancy. That way women will know if they are doing something beneficial for themselves and their babies or if they should perhaps choose an alternative to have as healthy a pregnancy possible.

Pregnancy Changes The Nutritional Requirements Of Women

The Role of Protein During Pregnancy – Best Sources of Protein for Pregnant Woman in Trimesters

During pregnancy, a womans nutritional requirements increase to support the growing foetus inside. Eating a wide variety of foods including protein, good fats and a large amount of fruit and vegetables is the best way to ensure the nutritional needs are met and promoted in the unborn baby. But what about protein? How important is protein for a pregnant woman?

The amount of protein consumed during the pregnancy is vital for the growing foetus and inadequate supplementation can affect factors such as the babys birth weight and health. Inadequate protein supply can also affect the health of the baby later in life. It is also important to note that excess protein intake can also have an effect on the growing foetus, and therefore an adequate supply of protein is needed for a healthy baby.

If youre currently thinking Ok I need protein, but not too much. How much is that? Let us dive deeper into this.

A healthy intake of protein during pregnancy supports the growing foetus and assists their rapidly multiplying cells to function normally.

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Safe Protein Shake Recipes For Pregnancy And Breastfeeding

Flavored protein powders can be tasty enough just mixed with water or your choice of milk. You can even use your favorite motivational water bottle or breastfeeding water bottle to enjoy these shakes. The below recipes are super easy to whip up in your kitchen and are also a delicious option packed with other healthy foods like fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats!

How Much Protein Is Required During Pregnancy

Women need to consume more than normal during pregnancy. Proper maternal food intake ensures the adequate development of the fetal body and brain. During pregnancy, a womans diet must contain the appropriate nutrients, with protein needs being especially important. Protein is broken down into amino acids and assists with bodily functions including, the growth and restoration of muscle tissue, hair nails skin bones and organs.

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Protein Monitoring Made Easy

If you’re careful about your meal planning and you’ve worked out all the details of how much fat, carbs, and protein you need, then the next step is actually keeping track of it.

But that might sound easier said than done.

Back in pre-smartphone days, you needed a pen and paper to write down what foods you ate. These days, some apps might make it a lot easier.

A favorite one is My Plate, which has a huge food database. All you need to do is enter what you eat, and at the end of the day, you can check what your protein intake was.

If you’re consistently below your target, then you know that some changes are needed to your diet.

MyFitnessPal and Noom works similar, and it has the advantage that you can track your fitness routines and activity levels as well.

Give them a try as they may save you a lot of time and effort.

Are Protein Shakes Safe During Pregnancy

10 PROTEIN Rich Foods That Are Very IMPORTANT Nutrients ...

Is it safe to drink protein shakes while pregnant?Drinking a few milk or soy-based drinks wont hurt you, but enjoy them judiciously. The ingredients need to be natural and unprocessed so as not upset your stomach when absorbed by the body. To get all of the nutrients that best suit both mothership AND babys needs during pregnancy , there are 10 different foods on this list below:

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Best Custom Protein Powder: Gainful

Many women wish that they could have greater control over the specific ingredients that go into their protein powder or feel that most products available dont quite meet their individual needs.

Thankfully, Gainful offers a custom protein powder that allows women to build their own product thats based upon their lifestyle and dietary preferences or restrictions.

In order to create their own protein, customers must first complete a 5-minute online assessment that asks questions on topics such as activity level, style of training or exercise, and dietary habits.

Following the completion of the quiz, Gainful generates a protein blend thats carefully crafted to meet your specific nutrient requirements.

All of the customizations lead to the creation of a protein powder that has a complete amino acid profile and provides 19 to 27 grams of protein per serving.

Its options for protein sources include whey concentrate, whey isolate, pea protein, and brown rice protein and customers may choose from 7 different flavors for their blend.

It is recommended for women to use 1-2 scoops daily of their custom protein powder.

Should I Look At Other Sources Of Protein During Pregnancy

Sourcing your protein from natural food sources is a better way to reach your nutritional needs. Lean meats such as chicken, turkey and low mercury fish are all safe sources to consume whilst pregnant and provide many nutritional benefits.

You can easily get one-third of your daily protein requirements from one serving of red meat or one chicken breast! It is also important to note that red meat is high in cholesterol and fats which can affect your heart health if consumed regularly.

Some seafood such as mackerel, swordfish and tilefish can contain high levels of mercury which should be avoided by pregnant women. Raw meats and undercooked seafood should also be avoided if pregnant and is recommended to consume plenty of plant-based protein sources such as legumes, lentils, whole grains and oatmeal.

A good rule of thumb is to include a protein portion at every meal so you can easily meet your daily target.

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Jarrow Formulas Whey Protein Unflavored

Jarrow Formulas also offers vanilla and chocolate besides this one which has no artificial sweeteners or additives. We feel this is one of the best protein powders out there.

The whey is uncontaminated by rBST . Its ultra-filtered to reduce fat, carbohydrates, and lactose. But its high in essential amino acids like leucine, isoleucine, and valine.

The only other ingredient is soy lecithin. Add this to your daily protein shake and consume it.

But what is lecithin?

Its an emulsifier found in all sorts of processed foods. It simplifies mixing this powder with liquids so that the combination is smooth and creamy, not lumpy.

Since there has been some controversy over the effects of large amounts of soy lecithin on animals, some manufacturers have moved on to sunflower lecithin.

Protein Shakes Should Supplement Not Replace Meals

Protein Diet Has Multiple Benefit During Pregnancy -Every Women To Know How Much To Eat In Pregnancy

When used in moderation, protein shakes are healthy to drink during pregnancy. However, they should be used to supplement a healthy pregnancy diet as a way to consume the extra protein and calories needed to support a healthy pregnancy. Not to replace meals in their entirety.

According to Livestrong, it is important that mothers-to-be receive their daily nutrition from a wide variety of sources. And while protein shakes can make up a source, they should not be relied on to replace whole meals because they do not contain enough calories and are not nutritionally balanced enough to do so for those who are expecting.

Therefore, if pregnant women want to incorporate protein shakes into their diets, they can do so. They just need to make sure the majority of their calories come from other sources.

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How Much Protein Should You Consume During Pregnancy

Scientific institutions recommend between 20% to 35% of the calories in a pregnant woman’s diet come from proteins.

Easy calculation:

Multiply your daily calories by 0.20 and .025

Divide this number by 4

For example, if you are eating 2200 calories per day:

2200 calories x 0.20 = 440 calories from protein

440 ÷ 4 = 110 grams of protein per day

2200 calories x 0.25 = 550 calories from protein

550 ÷ 4 = 137.5 grams of protein per day

In this example, the woman should be eating between 110 and 137.5 grams of protein per day.

Double Bonded Protein By Mt Capra

Mt. Capra combines casein and whey protein from goat milk and flavors it with organic cocoa and Stevia.

Please take note that it also has Xanthan gum which should not be given to premature infants.

The label also lists guar gum which could trigger soy allergies for some people. We feel this is one of the finest protein powders out there.

On the bright side, this product has 20 grams of protein per serving and comes from grass-fed goats.

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Things To Look For Before Taking Protein Powder During Pregnancy

Brand: Not all protein powders are of good quality. Make sure that the brand is good and trustworthy. If you do not know about it, then go through its reviews to understand how safe/not-safe protein powders can be for your health.

Ingredients: It should contain a complete amino acid formula and no fillers or artificial ingredients. Moreover, it must be gluten free and processed soy free to be a safe protein powder for you.

Price: The price of protein powders during pregnancy has to be considered if you have budget constraints. Otherwise, go for the one that will satisfy your needs. Usually, high quality protein powders are a bit costlier than the normal ones. Other protein powders that are not plant based are less expensive.

Taste: It should have a pleasant taste so that you can enjoy it during pregnancy. You may choose from several flavors available if you tend to have sugar cravings. Or go for an unflavored one if its flavor is not acceptable to your palate. But choose one that contains no artificial sweeteners or flavors if you have blood sugar imbalances issues.

Calorie per serving: It should have around 120 calories per serving so that you can consume protein shakes without any extra addition to your daily calorie intake.

Protein per serving: It should have around 20-30 grams of enough protein per serving.

Folic acid: The protein powder during pregnancy must not only contain folic acid but should also have folate.

How Much Protein Powder Is Safe During Pregnancy

Know the Importance of Protein during Pregnancy

Protein is an essential macronutrient. A sufficient amount is required for normal fetus development. However, overconsumption can result in impaired and disturbed growth . For this reason, it is important to ensure your protein consumption remains inside recommended intake levels. If enough protein is consumed from protein rich foods in a healthy diet, the consumption of protein powder will be unnecessary.

Protein shakes are best used during pregnancy when not enough protein is being consumed through food sources. Protein powder should just be used to make up for any nutritional gap. It is important not to take protein more than the recommended intake as research found supplements with excess protein provided to women with a diet already containing adequate protein may conversely impair fetal growth .

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