Cravings
We often make jokes about pregnancy cravings, and sure, it can be almost comical to wake up every night having the urge to eat green apples… But did you know there could be more reasons to experience cravings for certain foods during your pregnancy?
Cravings, are they real?
Hormones: During pregnancy the body undergoes big hormonal changes. This can affect your sense of taste and smell which in turn can change your preference for different foods. Some hormones can increase your sensitivity for flavors, making certain foods irresistible.
Nutritional need: The body needs extra nutrients during pregnancy, in order for both mother and baby to grow and develop. Some say that cravings exist to signal these needs of nutrients such as iron, calcium, protein or folate. For example, craving meat could be caused by a need for iron.
Relief of discomfort: If you’re experiencing nausea or heartburn during pregnancy, cravings can act as a relief of discomfort. For example, citrus fruits or crackers is said to relieve nausea.
Social and cultural influences: Dietairy preferences can be affected by our surroundings and culture. If someone frequently mentions or eats a certain food it can actually affect the pregnant persons cravings.
It’s completely normal to have cravings when pregnant. However, trying to keep a well balanced diet that contains all the nutrients needed during pregnancy is important. If you’re worried or have questions regarding your diet, you should consult your healthcare provider.
Craving specific foods can happen to anyone, pregnant or not. Common cravings are:
- Something sweet
- Savory foods
- Cheese
- Chips or french fries
- Red meats and charcuteries
We asked visitors of the site what cravings they had. Oranges and green apples are most common, but 37% do not experience any cravings.
Number of answers: 3 864
A healthy treat
Are you more sensitive to fluctuations in your blood sugar than usual? Suddenly you might feel the need for a quick energy boost in the form of sweets or cookies?
If you feel the urge to have something sweet, try having a fruit or chocolate containing a minimum of 70% cacao. If you’re craving a banana, your body might be signaling the need for potassium. Strawberries and other berries contain naturally high levels of folic acid. Folic acid is important for the normal development of the fetus during pregnancy, both at conception and the first three months of gestation. The recommendation when trying to conceive and during the first three motnhs of pregnancy is 600 micrograms (μg) daily of supplemental folic acid.