Why Eating During Labor is Essential and What to Eat at Different Phases

Labor is an intense physical process, and just like any other physical exertion, your body needs fuel to keep going. However, many hospitals have policies that restrict eating and drinking during labor, despite evidence suggesting that eating during labor is not only safe for most people but also beneficial. At Sweet Bee Services, we believe that nourishment during labor is vital for maintaining energy and ensuring a more positive birthing experience.

Why Eating During Labor is Important

The uterus is a muscle, and like any muscle, it needs energy to function effectively. When you're in labor, your body is working hard, and without proper nutrition, you can quickly become fatigued. Research in sports nutrition has shown that ingesting carbohydrates during exercise improves performance and protects against fatigue and ketosis. Labor can be likened to running a marathon—your body needs a consistent energy source to keep going.

Unfortunately, many hospitals still adhere to outdated "NPO" (nothing by mouth) policies that restrict eating and drinking during labor. These policies were originally implemented in the 1940s when anesthesia techniques were less advanced, and the risk of aspiration (inhaling food into the lungs) during emergency surgeries was higher. However, with modern advancements in anesthesia, these risks have significantly decreased, making the strict "NPO" policies unnecessary for most low-risk individuals .

What to Eat During the Different Phases of Labor

Early Labor:

During the early phase of labor, you want to keep things light and easy to digest. Avoid anything too crunchy or acidic, as some people experience nausea and vomiting later in labor, and these types of foods can irritate the esophagus. Think of gentle, nourishing foods like toast with almond butter, smoothies, or oatmeal. These foods are easy on the stomach and provide the slow-burning energy you need to start labor off strong.

Active Labor:

As labor progresses, it's essential to keep your energy levels up. In this phase, your body is working hard, so focus on foods that are rich in carbohydrates and easy to consume. We recommend protein shakes, fruit, or light sandwiches. Staying hydrated is also crucial, so consider coconut water or electrolyte drinks to maintain your energy levels. Keep in mind that many of our clients, particularly those with diverse cultural backgrounds, enjoy incorporating culturally relevant foods such as roasted plantains, tostones, or tortillas with honey, which are both nourishing and familiar.

Transition Phase:

The transition phase is often the most intense part of labor. Your body is nearing the end of the process, and while you might not feel like eating, a small energy boost can be very helpful. Opt for something quick and easy like honey sticks, a spoonful of peanut butter, or a sip of your favorite protein shake. These will provide you with the quick energy your body needs to push through this final stage.

Post-Birth Meal:

After your baby is born, it's time to celebrate your accomplishment with a meal of whatever you like! You've earned it. Many of our clients crave sushi, subs with unpasteurized cheese, or other foods they may have avoided during pregnancy—at Sweet Bee Services, we fully support this!

Day 1 of Postpartum Recovery:

As you settle into the first day of your postpartum recovery, it's important to focus on foods that will support your body's healing process and help maintain nutritionally dense breastmilk. High-protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates are key. Think grilled chicken with avocado, quinoa bowls, or salmon with sweet potatoes. These foods will help your body recover from the physical exertion of labor and support your overall health as you transition into motherhood.

Join Our Nutrition Class

At Sweet Bee Services, we understand the importance of nutrition during labor and postpartum recovery. That's why we offer a monthly nutrition class taught by our registered dietitian, Erika Watson-Lawson. This class will provide you with valuable information on how to nourish your body before, during, and after labor. You'll also receive a link to our smoothie recipe book, which is packed with delicious, nutrient-dense recipes that are perfect for labor and postpartum recovery.

If you're interested in learning more about how to fuel your body during labor, we invite you to join our next nutrition class. Visit our website to sign up today!

References:

Declercq, E., Sakala, C., Corry, M. P., & Applebaum, S. (2014). Listening to Mothers III: Pregnancy and Birth. New York: Childbirth Connection.

Ciardulli, A., Saccone, G., Anastasio, H., & Berghella, V. (2017). Less restrictive food intake during labor in low-risk women: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Obstetrics & Gynecology, 130(5), 1089-1096.

Rooks, J. P., Weatherby, N. L., Ernst, E. K., Stapleton, S. R., Rosen, D., & Rosenfield, A. (1989). Outcomes of care in birth centers. The National Birth Center Study. New England Journal of Medicine, 321(26), 1804-1811.

Alhafez, L., & Berghella, V. (2020). Evidence-based labor management: Where we are, and where we should be heading. AJOG MFM, 2(2), 100099.

Hawkins, J. L., Koonin, L. M., Palmer, S. K., & Gibbs, C. P. (1997). Anesthesia-related deaths during obstetric delivery in the United States, 1979-1990. Anesthesiology, 86(2), 277-284.

Beggs, J. A., & Stainton, M. C. (2002). Eat, drink, and be laboring? The Journal of Perinatal Education, 11(1), 1-13. doi: 10.1624/105812402X88551

American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. (2021). Nutrition During Pregnancy. ACOG. Retrieved from https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/practice-bulletin/articles/2021/01/nutrition-during-pregnancy