10 Best Snacks for Labour | UK Nutritionist Reviewed

This Cacao & Almond Energy Ball by Deliciously Ella is our number one choice when it comes to pre-packaged snacks for labour. As well as being 100% plant-based and gluten-free, it is high in fibre and a natural source of copper too, which is especially important during pregnancy as it is essential for forming red blood cells.

Not only is this energy ball super healthy, but it's delicious and provides you with the fuel you need to get through labour. The chewy, chocolatey blend of cacao and dates combined with crunchy almond pieces will really satisfy, too. 

A slightly unusual type of crisp, Garden Greens by Emily Veg Crisps has made it to our second spot because they are healthy, satisfying and pleasantly light. When you're at a stage where crackers or crisps might feel too much, you still may find yourself wanting to pick at these veggie crisps.

Made with real vegetables, Garden Greens are all-natural and contain a bright and tempting mix of crunchy whole peas and beans. A great way to get your greens while still enjoying a scrumptious snack!

Drinks may not usually feature on lists of the best snacks, but we feel like snacks for labour is the exception to this rule! Coconut water is incredibly hydrating and can be easier and more pleasant to drink than plain water during childbirth.

Low in calories and containing vitamin C, it has less sugar than fruit juice and works as excellent fuel for the process of labour. We absolutely recommend having a carton – or several – of this handy for the points when you don't want to eat and need to stay hydrated.

Fresh fruit is one of the best snacks for labour, and this selection by Waitrose is a premium choice. Including portions of kiwi, pineapple, melon, watermelon, apple slices and grapes, it is refreshing, hydrating and delicious.

The easy-to-snack-on chunks of different fruits are convenient and comforting to eat, and if you are having a home birth, this pack can be kept in the fridge. A delightfully tropical pick for any stage of labour.

One of two Deliciously Ella offerings on our list, their Sweet Potato & Rosemary Baked Veggie Chips are simply divine! Deliciously Ella products are the perfect go-to for pregnancy and labour because they are always jam-packed with vitamins, minerals, and delectable yet wholesome ingredients.

Crunchy and full of flavour, these crackers are made with rosemary, nigella seeds, paprika and turmeric for a savoury, well-spiced snack that hits the spot. If you're eating them before or after labour, they also work well with cheese, houmous and lots of other toppings.

Of all the ways to stay hydrated in labour, ice lollies are probably the most soothing, especially in summer. These Mini Orange & Lemon-Lime Ice Cream Lollies by Wall's Calippo are made mostly of lemon juice concentrate, making them intensely refreshing.

Fresh, fruity and juicy, they are bursting with flavour and provide the perfect balance of sweetness and zest. They really quench your thirst and are good for getting some nutrients when you can't face eating anything more substantial.

Eat Real create some of the best healthy savoury snacks out there, and their lentil chips are a great snack to have to hand during labour. Delicious by themselves or dipped in houmous, they are plain tasting enough to be appetising when you're not super hungry while still being yummy and moreish.

They are gluten-free, vegan, made without added sugar and contain 40% less fat than regular potato crisps. Very impressive for such an indulgent tasting snack!

Dried mango is a much-loved way to get a sugar boost naturally, and we think Urban Fruit's offering is the best out there. Made without sulphites or added sugar, it's gently baked at low temperatures to maintain nutrients and juiciness for the healthiest treat.

It is also high in fibre, a source of vitamin C and naturally gluten-free too. These tropical snacks aren't only really tasty but the packets are easy to open, small and convenient — which is just what you need during labour. 

Made with absolutely no artificial colours or flavours, these chewy jelly snakes by The Natural Confectionery Co. are a wonderfully nostalgic and comforting choice for early labour or those difficult parts where you need a quick boost!

Although being healthy is important on this most special day, choosing familiar sweets that reassured you when you were ill or upset as a child can be wonderful during labour. Being full of sugar, they aren't the most nutritious, but as far as sweets go, they are definitely some of the more angelic.

Popcorn is a healthier alternative to eating crisps, which can make it a good choice for labour and beyond. Propercorn's sweet and salty mix is an indulgent tasting and moreish snack to dip into when you feel peckish.

Made with just a few ingredients, these bags are vegan, gluten-free and only 126 calories per serving, making it a safe choice for most people. You may find this popcorn too difficult to eat during active labour, but it might be a convenient choice for early labour or to eat after you give birth.