39 Best Pregnancy Snacks for Every Situation and Craving

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Did you know that eating small, frequent meals can help regulate blood sugar levels and reduce fatigue during pregnancy?

Experts even suggest eating every 2-4 hours to support your energy and your baby’s growth. Whether you’re battling morning sickness, satisfying a sudden craving, or just trying to keep your energy steady through the day, having the right snacks on hand can be a total game-changer.

That’s why we’ve rounded up X Best Pregnancy Snacks for Every Situation and Craving. From salty to sweet, to those rare but undeniable “I need pickles now” moments, this list has you covered.

Grab a comfy seat (and maybe a snack already!)—we’re here to make sure you and your baby stay happy, healthy, and well-fed.

Disclaimer: Always talk to your doctor about any nutrition concerns during pregnancy and beyond.

Key Categories to Explore in This Article

• Best Overall Pregnancy Snacks (aka Healthy Snacks)
• Best Snacks for On-the-Go
• Best Snacks for Cravings
• Best Snacks for Morning Sickness (aka First Trimester and maybe beyond)
• Best Snacks for Gestational Diabetes

Pregnancy is a time of incredible changes—your body works overtime to grow and nourish new life. And with those changes come cravings, hunger pangs, and the need to fuel up more often than usual. Let us help with these ideas!

Want more nutrition guidance?

If you want to learn about the best foods for pregnancy, I also highly recommend a Pregnancy Nutrition Course from a fellow mama.  As a certified nutritionist, she breaks it all down so you know EXACTLY what to eat for a healthy pregnancy. 

Best Overall Pregnancy Snacks

Pregnancy snacks need to check quite a few boxes (in my opinion). When possible, they should be nutrient-dense, providing a good balance of protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates. But that’ll depend on what you can stomach at the moment and what you’re craving.

Here are some solid picks for everyday pregnancy snacking:

1. Fresh fruits and veggies: Snackable produce is always a great option. Produce like apples, carrots, celery sticks, and bell peppers are loaded with essential vitamins and minerals. Plus, they’re super easy to prep in bulk for the week and dip in your favorite dips (more on that below.
2. Greek yogurt with berries: This snack is delicious and provides probiotics for gut health and antioxidants from the berries. If you’re often craving ice cream, try switching to full-fat (for feeling satiated) Greek yogurt or cottage cheese with a drizzle of honey for a healthier alternative.
3. Hummus and veggie sticks: Hummus is a great source of plant-based protein and healthy fats, while veggies provide important vitamins and minerals. Together, they make a perfect pair for satisfying hunger cravings. Not feeling the veggies? Grab your favorite whole-grain crackers or pita bread to dip in the hummus instead.
4. Apple slices and peanut butter: The combination of sweet and salty is always a winner. Plus, peanut butter contains healthy fats and protein to help keep you feeling full longer. Want to switch it up? Try using almond or cashew butter instead.
5. Nuts and seeds: A handful of nuts or seeds, such as pumpkin seeds, walnuts, cashews, or almonds, can provide a quick energy boost and satisfy hunger. Plus, they’re packed with essential nutrients like magnesium, copper, and vitamin E. can provide protein, healthy fats, and important nutrients like magnesium and iron. They can be on their own, or a mix of various nuts and seeds can create a tasty trail mix. Then, you can add other tasty add-ins like dark chocolate chips, dried fruit, and even some popcorn for that salty crunch.
6. Hard-boiled eggs: Eggs are versatile and delicious, making them one of the best overall pregnancy snacks. Plus, they’re backed with choline, an important nutrient for your developing baby. Hard-boiled eggs are easy to prep ahead of time and can be eaten on their own or added to salads, sandwiches, or wraps for a protein boost.
7. Avocado toast: Easy to make and packed with nutrients, avocado toast is a go-to snack for many pregnant women. Plus, you can get creative with different toppings like sliced hard-boiled eggs or salmon for added protein.
8. Guacamole and whole-grain or organic corn tortilla chips: Similar to avocado toast, guacamole provides healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals while whole-grain or organic corn tortilla chips offer a satisfying crunch. This snack is also perfect for sharing with friends or family.
9. Cheese sticks or slices: Cheese is a great source of calcium and protein, making it a perfect snack for pregnant women. These days, most cheese is safe for consumption, although some women prefer to avoid soft cheese. The majority of cheese in grocery stores is required to be pasteurized (check labels, especially when buying locally). You can eat it on its own, pair it with whole-grain crackers, or add it to sandwiches for a quick and satisfying snack.
10. Tapenade charcuterrie board: Feeling fancy? Create a mini charcuterie board with tapenade (an olive-based dip) or whole olives, chunks of cheese, and other favorite pickled veggies. Just remember that deli meats are not recommended due to their higher risk of listeria.
11. Baked goodies: Sometimes, a sweet treat is just what you need to satisfy cravings. Instead of reaching for highly processed snacks, try making your own baked goods (or ask someone to make them) using whole grains, like bran muffins, oatmeal cookies, or banana bread. This way, you can control the ingredients and make them as nutritious as possible.
12. Protein balls: Protein balls are perfect for satisfying cravings and keeping hunger at bay. With endless flavor combinations, they’re easy to make at home and can be kept in the fridge or freezer for convenient snacking.
13. Sweet potato chips: If you’re craving something crunchy and salty, try making your own sweet potato chips. Simply slice a sweet potato thinly, toss with olive oil and spices of your choice, and bake until crispy. This way, you can satisfy cravings while also adding important nutrients like vitamin A and potassium to your diet. Other veggies that make great chips include kale, zucchini, and beets.
14. Popcorn: Another great option for satisfying a salty craving is popcorn. You can make your own at home with an air popper or on the stovetop using a small amount of oil. Add some spices like chili powder, garlic powder, and nutritional yeast for flavor and nutrients like iron and B vitamins.
15. Smoothies: Sometimes, it’s hard to feel hungry during pregnancy. Smoothies can be a great way to get essential nutrients in liquid form. Try blending fruits, veggies, protein sources (like pregnancy-safe powders, Greek yogurt or silken tofu), healthy fats (like avocado or nut butter), and any other add-ins you prefer (flax seeds, chia seeds, or hemp seeds).

Not sure what you should be eating? See our full guides about foods to avoid and the best foods for pregnancy.

Best Snacks for On-the-Go

While any snack can technically be “on-the-go” with pre-meditated prep and storage, some options may be more convenient and portable than others. These are specifically packaged to simply grab out of the pantry when you’re starving right now or have to run out the door and don’t want to be left with a low-sugar crash.

Here are a few ideas for pregnancy snacks that are truly easy to take with you on the go:

1. Premade smoothies: You can purchase pre-made smoothies in a package (just like a kid’s applesauce) at Costco, grocery stores, or on Amazon (a best seller is Noka Superfood Smoothies). Or find fresher versions from your local groceries.
2. Protein bars: There are many pre-packaged protein bars on the market these days, but not all are created equal. Look for options with wholesome ingredients and avoid ones loaded with added sugars or artificial flavors. A few top picks include Aloha Bars and RXBars.
3. Trail mix: You can purchase pre-made trail mixes from stores or make your own at home by combining nuts, seeds, dried fruits, and any other add-ins you prefer (like dark chocolate chips). Store in a small container or baggie for easy snacking. Here is my personal favorite.
4. Fruit cups: Pre-cut fruit cups, like peaches or pears, are a convenient option for getting a serving of fruit on the go. Just try to choose options packed in juice rather than syrup for a healthier snack.
5. Packs of nut butter and crackers: Grab a pack of single-serving nut butter packets (like Justin’s Almond Butter) and some whole-grain crackers or sliced fruit for a satisfying and portable snack option.
6. Beef sticks: If you’re a fan of jerky or meat snacks, opt for meat sticks. They tend to be lower in sodium and preservatives compared to traditional beef jerky. Chomps Grass-Fed Beef Sticks are a popular and tasty option.
7. Hummus cups: Hummus is a great source of protein and healthy fats, making it an ideal pregnancy snack. Look for pre-packaged hummus cups that maybe even come with pretzels or veggie sticks for dipping.
8. String cheese: String cheese is another easy on-the-go snack option. It provides calcium and protein while being convenient to eat anywhere.

Best Snacks for Cravings

Being pregnant may come with some unexpected cravings and it’s important to pay attention to them. Cravings can sometimes signal a need for certain nutrients, such as protein, iron, or healthy fats.

Here are some satisfying snack options that may help fulfill those pregnancy cravings:

1. Pickles: Pickles are a classic pregnancy craving due to their sour and salty taste. They also provide electrolytes and antioxidants. Just be mindful of the sodium content if you have high blood pressure.
2. Mango slices with Tajin seasoning: This spicy, sweet, and tangy combination is popular among pregnant women. Mangoes are packed with vitamins A and C while Tajin contains chili powder, lime juice, and salt.
3. Frozen grapes: Frozen grapes are a refreshing and hydrating snack that can satisfy a sweet craving. They also contain fiber and antioxidants.
4. Dark chocolate: Indulging in some dark chocolate can help satisfy a sweet tooth while providing beneficial antioxidants. Just make sure to choose high-quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content for maximum benefits.
5. Popcorn with nutritional yeast: For those who crave savory snacks, try popping your own popcorn and sprinkling it with nutritional yeast. This will give you the satisfaction of eating chips or cheesy snacks without the added calories or unhealthy ingredients.
6. Peanut butter and banana sandwich: A classic combo that satisfies both sweet and savory cravings while providing protein, healthy fats, and potassium from the banana.
7. Rice cakes with almond butter: Crispy rice cakes topped with creamy almond butter can provide the satisfaction of a crunchy snack while fulfilling your need for protein and healthy fats.
8. Nice cream: Blend frozen bananas with a splash of milk and any other desired mix-ins (like peanut butter, chocolate chips, or berries) to create a creamy and nutritious ice cream alternative.
9. Fresh fruit bowl: Create a colorful and flavorful fruit bowl with your favorite fruits for a refreshing and nutritious snack option that’ll be much more nutritious than fruit flavor snacks or candies.

Best Snacks for Morning Sickness (aka First Trimester)

The first trimester of pregnancy can be accompanied by morning sickness, which can make it difficult to keep foods down. Here are some options that may help ease nausea and provide nutrition during this time:

1. Ginger chews or tea: Ginger has been used as a natural remedy for nausea for centuries. You can find ginger chews or brew a cup of ginger tea to sip on throughout the day.
2. Crackers: Plain crackers, like saltines, are often recommended as an easy snack option for pregnant women experiencing morning sickness. They are bland enough to not trigger any nausea and also provide carbs for energy.
3. Ginger ale or lemon-lime soda: Sipping on flat ginger ale or lemon-lime soda can help settle an upset stomach and provide hydration. Just make sure to choose options made with real ginger and without added sugars.
4. Smoothies: As mentioned earlier, smoothies are an easy on-the-go snack option. For morning sickness, consider adding some fresh ginger to your smoothie for its anti-nausea properties.
5. Popsicles: Popsicles made from pure fruit juice or homemade smoothies can be a refreshing way to stay hydrated while feeling nauseous. They also provide a cooling sensation that may help ease nausea.
6. Bland fruits: Stick to bland and easily digestible fruits, such as bananas, applesauce, or melons, if your stomach is feeling uneasy. These will still provide some nutrients while being gentle on the stomach.
7. Mints or gum: Mint has a calming effect on the stomach and can help alleviate nausea. Keep some mints or sugar-free gum on hand to chew on throughout the day.

For more food ideas for nausea, see our full guide to foods for morning sickness and how to combat morning sickness.

Best Snacks for Gestational Diabetes

Gestational diabetes is a type of diabetes that can develop during pregnancy. It’s important to closely monitor your blood sugar levels and follow a healthy diet to manage this condition. Your doctor will make the best recommendations based on your needs for diet and pregnancy exercise.

Any of the snacks listed above can be suitable for gestational diabetes, depending on your individual blood sugar levels and dietary restrictions. The fat and protein rich options with fewer sugars are likely the best options.

Keep Calm and Snack On

Pregnancy snacks should not only be tasty but also provide nutrition for both you and your growing baby. It’s important to listen to your cravings and make sure you’re getting a variety of essential nutrients in your diet. By choosing healthy, convenient, and satisfying snack options, you’ll have an easier time staying nourished throughout your pregnancy journey.