If you are pregnant and have an unexplainable urge to eat or drink something unusual, don’t be surprised! You may be in the throes of what is generally described as pregnancy cravings. So, how can you find a balance between a healthy diet and these desires that in some cases can appear downright weird?

What Is a Pregnancy Craving?

A pregnancy craving is an urge to eat a particular food while you are pregnant. These cravings tend to be singled out from other types of cravings because some appear to be very unusual.

Why Am I Getting Pregnancy Cravings?

A variety of theories exist as to why women get pregnancy cravings, although the specific cause is unknown. Hormonal changes during pregnancy are known to influence taste and smell which may explain why some favorite foods become repugnant and why these cravings feel so strong when they arrive.

If your doctor has placed you on a dietary regimen, cravings may only complicate matters and seem like insurmountable hurdles. Pregnancy brings with it a need for increased energy as support for your baby’s development, but this can also lead to cravings that end in overeating. As your pregnancy progresses, there will be multiple mood and physical changes that may include emotional cravings. When these cravings strike, who doesn’t reach for some comfort food?

Unusual Pregnancy Cravings

Many women will experience cravings that might be considered “weird”. Often these may be merely an unusual combination of foods such as combining pickles and ice cream. A small percentage of women may experience “Pica” which is when you want to eat something that is not food like soap, plastic, chalk, dirt, etc. and these cases need to be referred to a medical professional.

Some of the more common pregnancy cravings include:

Chocolate
Starches like potatoes, pasta, or similar
Pickles
Spicy foods
Milk
Sour foods, especially if suffering from nausea

How to Find a Balance to Manage Pregnancy Cravings

Cravings often spiral into a problem when they begin to replace healthy eating and nutrition necessities. There are a few things you can do to help keep your cravings under control and stop them from interfering with getting the nutrients that both you and your baby need.

1. Eat on a Regular Schedule

Eating regularly, both meals and snacks are one of the best ways to curb your appetite throughout the day and make sure you are getting proper nourishment.

2. Include Foods High in Fiber in Your Diet

Foods that contain fiber will help you feel fuller during the day. These might include vegetables, legumes, fruit, and even wholemeal bread. Not only will you be getting lots of vitamins and minerals, but you will be aiding your digestion and getting energy to sustain your body’s needs.

3. Drink Lots of Water

Often when we are a bit dehydrated or feeling hungry, we need water. Staying hydrated is particularly important during pregnancy. If you drink enough during the day, you can also reduce some fatigue associated with pregnancy. If you don’t find plain water appealing, try fruit-infused herbal teas and waters to keep you drinking enough.

4. Plan for Healthy Snacks

If you have healthy snacks on hand, you’ll be less inclined to look for unhealthy foods. If you crave salty foods consider air-popped popcorn, healthy pickle-flavored popcorn, a fistful of nuts, a nibble of peanut butter, or nut butter to satisfy your craving. For a sweet urge, consider blending frozen bananas with another favorite fruit.

Nutrition is the cornerstone of any pregnancy, so what you eat needs to satisfy the nutritional needs of you and your child. If you love chocolate, try dark chocolate that is less sweet and healthier. Wholemeal bread with a tablespoon of peanut butter may be a better choice than eating white bread with sugary jelly and a nut mix or trail mix may serve you better than a sugary “health” bar.

5. Get Enough Rest

Sleeping well is a must during pregnancy although it can be challenging as your body attempts to adjust to changes. Sleep is essential for maintaining hormone levels balanced. A lack of sleep or interrupted sleep can increase ghrelin which is known to stimulate the appetite or increase the production of leptin the energy-regulating hormone. With higher amounts of leptin on the loose, your normal meal may not leave you satiated. Maintaining a consistent bedtime can aid you in developing a sleep schedule so you remain well-rested.

6. Deprivation Doesn’t Help

If you are constantly depriving yourself of cravings, you may end up binging later. Rather than restricting yourself, have a small portion of whatever it is you are craving. Strict diets may be frustrating and impossible to maintain.

7. Avoid Shopping if You Are Hungry

Shopping for groceries with an empty stomach can lead you into temptation. This can cause you to bring home bags of junk or comfort food. Eat before you go shopping so you aren’t at risk for hunger pangs.

Cravings: Finding Balance During Pregnancy