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Nutrition Insights on Labour-Linked Foods

I was recently invited to share some insights for an article on Hip & Healthy, exploring one of the most common questions among expectant parents: what (if anything) actually helps bring on labour?

From long walks and reflexology to dates and raspberry leaf tea, the feature dives into both the myths and the evidence - and I was happy to contribute from a nutritional perspective.

Here’s what I shared:

🫖 Raspberry Leaf Tea: This herbal tea is often recommended in the final weeks of pregnancy. I explained that while it doesn’t “induce” labour per se, it may help tone the uterine muscles- potentially supporting more efficient contractions when labour begins.

🌴 Dates: I spoke about some small studies showing that eating dates in the last few weeks of pregnancy may help support cervical ripening and increase the likelihood of spontaneous labour. That said, I also noted that they’re not suitable for everyone- particularly those managing gestational diabetes, due to their high natural sugar content.

🐟 Omega-3s: I highlighted that omega-3 fats (from sources like oily fish or algae) are important in the production of prostaglandins, which are compounds involved in triggering uterine contractions. However, I advise pausing omega-3 supplements about a week before the due date, as they can have a mild blood-thinning effect.

💧 Hydration & Electrolytes: One simple but often overlooked tip I shared was staying well-hydrated. Proper hydration and electrolyte balance help the uterine muscles function effectively and may reduce cramping. I even offered my go-to homemade electrolyte drink:

Jen’s Labour Support Electrolyte Mix:

• 2 cups coconut water

• 1 cup water

• Juice of 1 lemon and 1 lime

• 1 tbsp honey

• Pinch of Himalayan salt

  
  

I also recommended a clean, low-sodium electrolyte supplement like BodyBio E-Lyte for extra support. Use code JENWALPOLE for 20% off.

✨ In Summary As I shared in the piece, it’s not about trying a single food or drink in the hopes of “kick-starting” labour. The real support comes from ongoing nourishment, hormonal balance, and minimising stress as you move into the final stretch of pregnancy.

If you're looking for personalised nutrition support throughout your pregnancy, including preparing for birth, take a look at my Pregnancy Support Package, which is tailored to each trimester and designed to help you feel confident and well-nourished every step of the way.

📖 You can read the full article here:

From Meghan’s Moves to Pineapple Myths: What Actually Gets Labour Going? – Hip & Healthy