Pregnancy is one of the most exciting times in life, but it can also feel overwhelming with the influx of information, bodily changes, and increased nutritional demands. 

In fact, one of the biggest questions and one you might be asking yourself is “am I getting enough nutrients for myself and baby?” It’s important to remember, however, that you already possess maternal wisdom that will ensure you have a healthy and successful pregnancy!

It’s true that you and your baby require an abundance of nutrients during this time. After all, your body is undergoing rapid changes right now. it's not only supporting the growth and development of your baby but also maintaining maternal homeostasis as well. But ensuring you are both well taken care of doesn’t require huge, drastic changes. Simply focusing on small, simple additions to your daily practices will make a world of difference. 

Increasing Micronutrient Intake

Supplementation in addition to an increase of both macro and micronutrients is important to maintain adequate levels during pregnancy. Your intake requirements in the first trimester don’t differ much from non-pregnant people. However, things really increase between weeks 10 and 30 when the growth of maternal and fetal tissue is the greatest. During this time, we want to be mindful of providing sufficient amounts of energy to not only provide the baby with its needs. As well as support your usual requirements so you can go about your day feeling like the cape-less superhero that you are! 

How Boise Juice Can Help

If you don’t have a juicer or are one who leans more towards quality and convenience, picking up a juice might be the best option for you. BJC takes pride in sourcing local, organic fruits and vegetables from Charlie’s Produce. This allows us to create the best possible product that contains quality nutrients.

One of the primary nutrients needed during pregnancy is Folate. Although this B-vitamin is one that is highly concentrated in prenatal vitamins, it can also be found in leafy greens, oranges, beets, lemons, and limes. Common ingredients in many of our juices! These particular fruits and veggies also contain high amounts of vitamin C. This can also help support the immune system, prevent cell damage, and assist with iron absorption.

Additionally, incorporating one fresh juice a day can help with one of pregnancy’s most common symptoms...nausea! It’s a great way to fill that nutrient gap, without consuming an entire meal. You can also opt for a smoothie or smoothie bowl, which will provide an additional line of support with dietary fiber. Fiber is absolutely necessary and helps lower your risk for disease by reducing cholesterol and blood glucose response. It also keeps you full and regular, nipping another pesky pregnancy symptom in the bud. 

Coach Jenn’s Top Pregnancy Picks

Let's be real. There are days when you can whip up the most glorious juice concoction while jamming out to Lizzo in your cutest pregnancy outfit. Then there are days where picking up a juice from point A to B is your best option! Fortunately, Boise Juice Co presses fresh juices daily that pack a serious nutritional punch!

Check out a few of my favorites below:

1. Turn Up The Beet: Perfect for those days when you need an extra pep in your step! Beetroot contains the powerful antioxidant betacyanin, which improves energy levels. While also providing a quality source of potassium and folate. Carrots provide a rich source of  beta-carotene and vitamin E, while fresh ginger root will help to control nausea.
2. The Holy Kale: Because all those glorious greens give us that beloved b vitamin, Folate, in addition to a plethora of other B vitamin. Kale also contains vitamins K, A and C, which plays an important role in preventing birth defects.
3. Turmeric Tonic: A solid go-to for hydration, energy and immune support! Areas of pregnancy that need constant love and attention. Vitamin C partners with anti-inflammatory agents found in turmeric and ginger to ensure you stay healthy!
4. Cocoa-Loco: Curbs that sweet tooth while also adding some extra protein to your diet! It contains those healthy fats, while also providing fiber and you guessed it, more B vitamins! 

Tips for Juicing at Home

If you’d feel better about juicing at home, we strongly encourage you to do so! After all, the things that make you feel confident are truly the most important. Here’s what you’ll want to know about juicing at home:

• Be sure to opt for high-quality, organic fruits and veggies! Peruse the farmer’s markets or the neighborhood fruit stand for the best seasonal produce.
• Mix it up! Your body needs the entire spectrum of nutrients, so focusing on variety is a great way to reach your needs.
• Wash everything appropriately before juicing. This means rinsing with water, scrubbing away dirt and debris, and removing any pieces that are bruised or damaged. 
• Store in a glass container and drink within 24 hours. This ensures you get the most effective health benefits from your juice!
• Practice moderation! Fresh, cold-pressed juice provides so many incredible benefits, but you’ll also want to make sure you get enough fiber to help balance blood sugar. 
• Incorporate high-quality, nutrient dense foods! Juices and smoothies will work better for you if you work with them.