Hospital food can be depressing, so your dad-to-be will surely appreciate you sneaking in some of his favorites with this extensive guide on hospital snacks for Dad.
The trick is finding things that will travel well, won’t spoil, and are still comforting. You know the simple pleasures your dad-to-be enjoys—his go-to snacks for watching the big game or his favorite movie treats.
Luckily, there are plenty of options to check all the boxes.
In this article, you’ll find some perfect snack ideas.
Things like trail mix, beef jerky, popcorn, granola bars, crackers and cheese, dried fruit, nuts, and candy are comforting tastes of home that will lift your Dad to be to be’s spirits during his hospital stay.
Additionally, he could check out some helpful tips for preparing for fatherhood.
Hearty and Healthy: Hospital Snacks for Dad to be
Dad to-be is about to get stuck in the hospital, but that doesn’t mean he has to suffer through bland hospital food.
Bring him some comforting snacks to keep his strength and spirits high.
Some healthy bites
Pack healthy, filling options like granola bars, protein bars, nuts, and dried fruit.
Granola bars with many grains, nuts, and minimal sugar are hearty but light. Look for bars with ingredients you recognize, like oats, almonds, and honey.
For extra protein, opt for a bar with peanuts, peanut butter, or whey protein.
Berries and nuts
Bring fresh fruit like apples, oranges, or bananas that don’t need refrigeration.
Berries like blueberries are packed with antioxidants but can get messy, so save those for when you visit.
Nuts are a perfect snack, full of healthy fats and protein. Almonds, walnuts, and pistachios all have lots of nutrients. Just watch portion sizes, as nuts are calorie-dense.
Dried Fruits
Dried fruits, especially raisins, dates, apricots, and mangoes, are sweet treats that provide fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Skip anything with added sugar.
Savory snacks
For a savory snack, bring mini pretzels, pita chips, whole grain crackers, rice cakes, peanut butter, hummus, guacamole, or cheese.
Soup, chili, and stew are easy to eat and can be warmed up in the hospital room.
Snacks to boost energy
Dad-to-be’s hospital stay will be more bearable, with snacks to boost his energy.
Sweet Treats: Satisfy Dads-to-be’s Craving in a Balanced Way
His sweet tooth doesn’t have to go unsatisfied just because he’s in the hospital. Indulge him with some treats in moderation.
Fruit salad
A fresh fruit salad is a perfect option. Fill a bowl with his favorites, such as strawberries, blueberries, melon, and grapes.
The natural sugar will healthily satisfy his craving.
Cookies
Bring him his favorite cookies, whether chocolate chip, oatmeal raisin, or snickerdoodle. Only bring 2-3 at a time so he doesn’t overload on sugar and carbs.
Cookies are also perfect for dunking in milk or coffee, which the hospital will provide.
Dark chocolate
For chocolate lovers, bring a few squares of high-quality dark chocolate. Dark chocolate has less sugar but is still packed with flavor.
It’s also a good source of antioxidants to feel good about this sweet treat.
Bread pudding
If he wants something warm and comforting, bread pudding is perfect.
You can make a healthier version with whole-grain bread, egg whites, skim milk, and spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla.
Top it with maple syrup, and it’ll feel like an indulgence.
Practical and Portable: Easy Hospital Snacks for Dad and Visitors to Share
Some Fresh fruits
Fresh fruit like bananas, apples, and oranges is always a good choice.
Berries are naturally sweet and not too messy, and their bright colors can help lift spirits. Blueberries and raspberries are tasty and packed with antioxidants.
Roasted Chickpeas
A crunchy and savory snack that’s high in fiber and protein.
These roasted legumes offer a satisfying crunch and a burst of flavor, making them an ideal alternative to traditional snacks.
Plus, their high fiber content helps keep Dad-to-be feeling full and satisfied throughout the day.
Fruit Leather
Fruit leather is a sweet and chewy snack made from dried fruit puree. It is delicious and a great natural sugar and fiber source, providing a quick energy boost.
Its chewy texture makes it a fun and satisfying treat for Dad-to-be to enjoy during his hospital stay.
Seaweed Snacks
Crispy and lightly salted seaweed snacks can be a unique and nutritious option.
They are low in calories and rich in vitamins and minerals, making them a healthy alternative to traditional snacks.
Their unique flavor and crunch make them a delightful treat for Dad-to-be to enjoy in the hospital.
Yogurt with Granola
Yogurt with granola and honey provides protein to keep energy up. Look for single-serve cups that don’t require a spoon.
Whole-grain granola, protein, or trail mix bars are satisfying and shelf-stable.
Hummus and veggie snacks
For something savory, bring hummus and veggie sticks (carrots, cucumbers, celery, etc.), cheese and whole-grain crackers, nuts like almonds or pistachios, or air-popped popcorn.
Beef, turkey, jerky, and snack-size packs of pretzels or veggie chips also travel well.
Mini Rice Balls
Crafted with sticky rice and a flavorful filling like tuna or salmon, these bite-sized delights are filling and rich in protein and energy, perfect for keeping Dad-to-be satisfied during long waits or late-night cravings.
Mini Bagels
Ideally whole grain, with creamy cream cheese or nut butter, these compact treats offer a satisfying crunch and are easy to eat on the move, making them ideal for hectic hospital days.
Protein-Packed Smoothie Packs
Prepare these in advance by freezing individual portions of smoothie ingredients in bags. When ready, blend with water or milk for a delicious and revitalizing treat.
Mini Quiches
Made with vegetables or lean protein, these mini marvels can be prepared ahead of time and offer a satisfying and flavorful snack choice.
Mini Sandwiches or Wraps
Brimming with lean protein, veggies, and a healthy spread like hummus or avocado, these mini-meals provide a balanced mix of nutrients to keep Dad-to-be energized and content.
Avoid strong smells and overly sweet items
Avoid anything with a strong smell that could irritate other patients. Also, skip overly sweet, greasy, or crumbly items.
Small portions are more accessible to consume for someone with a decreased appetite.
Conclusion
As you prepare to welcome your little one, don’t forget to pack a little extra love in the form of comforting snacks for the soon-to-be dad.
These treats provide a taste of home and remind you of your thoughtfulness and care during this particular time.
Whether a simple granola bar or a sweet indulgence, these snacks can bring comfort and joy amidst the hospital’s hustle and bustle.
So, as you embark on this new journey together, may these snacks nourish not just the body but also the heart as you create lasting memories of this extraordinary chapter in your lives.
