You’re in the magical (and sometimes mystical) journey of pregnancy, and along with the excitement comes the notorious cravings. One minute you’re all about that green smoothie life, and the next, you’re dreaming of ice cream with pickles on top. Welcome to the world of pregnancy cravings!
Here is a step-by-step guide to happy and healthy munchingbrought to you in partnership with the Pregnancy and Parenting Support Center!
Before you reach for that jar of pickles (or whatever your craving du jour may be), let’s chat about how you can manage these cravings like the boss you are.
Understanding Pregnancy Cravings
First up, let’s understand what’s going on in that beautiful body of yours. Cravings during pregnancy are totally normal and can be quite diverse. While the exact cause of cravings is unknown, they may be related to the hormonal rollercoaster of pregnancy that affects your sense of smell and taste (American Pregnancy Association). Sometimes, your body might be nudging you towards what it needs, like more magnesium, which is why you’re suddenly chocolate’s number one fan.
Managing Cravings the Smart Way
• Balance is Key: Don’t deny yourself the simple pleasures of satisfying a craving. It’s all about moderation. If you’re craving something sweet, balance it out with a nutritious meal beforehand.
• Healthy Alternatives: Got a hankering for something salty? Try reaching for lightly salted popcorn instead of chips. Sweet tooth demanding attention? A piece of fruit or a small square of dark chocolate can do the trick.
• Stay Hydrated: Sometimes, our bodies confuse thirst with hunger. Make sure you’re well-hydrated throughout the day, as it can help keep those cravings in check (Mayo Clinic).
• Plan Your Meals: If you have a meal plan that includes a variety of nutrients, you’re less likely to have intense cravings. Plus, it’s a great way to ensure you and your baby are getting the essentials.
• Mindful Eating: Take your time to savor and enjoy your food. Mindful eating can increase satisfaction and help you recognize true hunger cues (Harvard Health Publishing).
• Keep Active: Regular activity can help regulate appetite and may reduce the intensity of cravings (ACOG).
Craving Busters to Keep On Hand
• Fresh fruit for a natural sugar rush
• Nuts and seeds for a protein and healthy fat boost
• Greek yogurt for a creamy craving conqueror
• Veggie sticks with hummus for when crunch-time calls
When Cravings Could Be Concerning
Occasionally, cravings can be a sign of an underlying nutritional deficiency. For example, an intense craving for ice could indicate anemia (Cleveland Clinic). Always discuss any out-of-the-ordinary cravings with your healthcare provider.
And then there’s pica—the craving for non-food items like dirt or laundry starch. If you find yourself eyeing non-edible items, it’s definitely time to call your doctor (Mayo Clinic).
Remember, mama, cravings are just one of the many chapters in your pregnancy story. Embrace them, manage them, and don’t be too hard on yourself when you give in to them.
Happy and healthy munching!
Sources:
American Pregnancy Association. (n.d.). Pregnancy Cravings. [Online] Available at: https://americanpregnancy.org/healthy-pregnancy/pregnancy-health-wellness/pregnancy-cravings-71047/
Mayo Clinic. (2019). Pregnancy nutrition: Healthy-eating basics. [Online] Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/pregnancy-week-by-week/in-depth/pregnancy-nutrition/art-20046955
Harvard Health Publishing. (2020). Mindful eating may help with weight loss. [Online] Available at: https://www.health.harvard.edu/healthbeat/mindful-eating-may-help-with-weight-loss
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). (2015). Physical Activity and Exercise During Pregnancy and the Postpartum Period. [Online] Available at: https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/committee-opinion/articles/2015/12/physical-activity-and-exercise-during-pregnancy-and-the-postpartum-period
Cleveland Clinic. (2019). Weird Pregnancy Cravings: What Do They Mean? [Online] Available at: https://health.clevelandclinic.org/weird-pregnancy-cravings-what-do-they-mean/
