A 42-year-old pregnant nutritionist reveals what she eats in a day

Then, it all went out the window because I was very sick during the first trimester. It was the mode of absolute survival. I was throwing up a lot and going to the emergency room because I was so dehydrated. I gave myself permission to eat whatever I could, even if it was a burger or chicken nuggets from McDonald’s.

I feel much better now that I’m approaching my third trimester. And I understand that even with the best laid plans, life sometimes gets in the way. You need to learn how to roll with those punches.

I focus on healthy meals that are easy to prepare

I make sure that I eat lots of foods that are packed with lots of flavor every day. One of my favorite tricks is to use salsa to add flavor to dishes. Another secret weapon of mine is sriracha. Even during pregnancy, the more spice the better for me.

Although I am health conscious, I am also tired. Not only am I pregnant at 42, but I am also following my two other children who are 5 and 6 years old. Cooking and cleaning feel like a chore, so I rely on group meals when I can. I cook big pots of turkey chili and roast big batches of vegetables that I can eat for the next two or three days.

Breakfast is usually eggs or oatmeal

Breakfasts are busy, so I always make a breakfast that the kids will eat too. Usually, this is something like eggs or oatmeal.

If I’m eating eggs, I’ll combine 2-3 egg whites with a whole egg to pack in plenty of protein. I like to eat it with whole wheat bread or a herbed tortilla wrap for added fiber. If I’m getting a wrap, I pack it with tons of arugula to pack in the greens and vitamins and top it with spicy sriracha.

Another favorite is plain oatmeal flavored with almond butter, unsweetened almond milk, and cinnamon. I pack it with fruit, like berries and bananas, to get a healthy dose of nutrients.

I make sure to get healthy fats in snacks and at lunch

My favorite lunch is avocado toast. Avocados are full of heart-healthy fats. I put them on toasted whole wheat bread, on top of tomatoes and greens. I also add chili flakes. Spice pumps up your metabolism and encourages you to drink more water, which is especially important during pregnancy.

If I’m hungry during the day, you’ll find me looking for nuts. Almonds and walnuts are my favorites. They are amazing sources of healthy omega fatty acids and fats. I also incorporate vegetables, whether it’s carrots and celery or roasted vegetables left over from the night before. I’m also a big fan of edamame, another great source of protein and fiber.

Along with meals, I drink tons of water and unsweetened iced tea throughout the day. I always have a large pot of iced green tea flavored with mint, lemon wedges or even watermelon. It’s fun and refreshing.

I want to have a fulfilling relationship with food

My dinner usually consists of lean protein, like baked chicken breast, and tons of veggies to give my body all the vitamins and nutrients it needs. I often eat a wrap here, it’s also such an easy and delicious way to include protein, veggies, and whole wheat carbs.

Like many people, sometimes I like a sweet treat. One of my favorites is the Fat Free Cool with Chocolate Protein Powder Blend. Or, if I’m more in the mood for cookies and cream, I’ll crumble a FiberOne brownie into Cool Whip, mix it together. then stick the Cool Whip back in the fridge for a bit. When it’s cooled, you’ll have the best chocolate ice cream or cookies without so many calories.

I never want food to be bland or boring. It’s important to me to have a satisfying relationship with food, and I love finding ways to make healthy dishes that also taste great. There are always options.