Being pregnant and suddenly craving pizza one moment and chocolate or ice the next? You’re not alone! These cravings are perfectly normal and are all part of your incredible pregnancy journey.
Food cravings during pregnancy are well-documented and extremely common.
Pregnancy cravings are not just a myth; they’re a well-documented and incredibly common phenomenon. Often, these cravings might seem random, but your body might be trying to tell you something – perhaps you’re in need of a specific vitamin. These cravings can also be attributed to the dramatic hormonal changes that your body undergoes during pregnancy. These hormones can significantly influence your sense of taste and smell, leading you to crave foods you never thought you would, and saying goodbye to some old favourites. After all, why would you choose a pickle over a piece of chocolate?
During my pregnancy, I didn’t experience wild cravings. I think I remained pretty devoted to my trusty Nutella, and honestly, I still do, even when not pregnant! 😄 Midnight kitchen raids weren’t a part of my pregnancy story.
When Do Cravings Strike?:
Surprisingly, research shows that cravings tend to strike most often in the afternoon (40%) or during the evening (38%), with only a small 8% indulging in midnight snacks.
The Top Pregnancy Cravings
I did some research and apparently, these are the top cravings in pregnancy.
- ICE. Really? Yes, you read that right! Ice chewing is a thing. Women with anaemia often find comfort in this because it can soothe mouth and tongue inflammation, a common symptom of anaemia. While I understand the appeal of feeling cooler, the joy of sucking on ice remains a mystery to me. Aren’t we fascinating creatures? 😄
- CHOCOLATE. Ah, my personal favourite! A craving for chocolate can be attributed to the increased caloric needs of a pregnant woman. If you’re reaching for chocolate, consider opting for dark chocolate – it’s said to satisfy those cravings even better. Plus, it’s great for heart health and packed with antioxidants.
- PICKLES. Pickles (along with olives and potato chips) are classic pregnancy cravings. The increase in blood volume during pregnancy raises the need for sodium, making these salty snacks a go-to choice.
- SPICY FOOD. Spicy foods, such as curry or hot red peppers, are yet another common craving among pregnant women. Interestingly enough, it’s because hot foods make the body sweat, which cools off the body. If you’re currently expecting, then you know it’s almost impossible to stay cool. Try adding some spice to your next meal to see if it helps cool you down. WOW! Can you believe it?
- COFFEE. Even though some doctors say, it’s a no-no, pregnant women commonly crave coffee, especially those who drank it before conceiving. Coffee makes you more alert and decreases headaches and depression. Coffee can boost alertness and alleviate headaches and depression. As an Italian mum, I enjoyed my morning espresso and an extra one during the day. However, if you’re unsure, it’s always best to consult with your doctor or nutritionist.
Unusual Cravings
Now, here’s where things get really interesting! Some pregnancy cravings can be quite unusual—more so than ice, believe it or not. If you ever find yourself craving any of these, it might be a good idea to consult with your doctor:
- coal
- toothpaste
- sponges
- mud
- chalk
- laundry soap
- matches
- rubber
Hormones certainly have a way of making us do some quirky things, don’t they?
Share Your Cravings
So, what about you? Are your cravings leaning towards sweet, salty, sour, spicy, or just about anything and everything? Let me know in the comments below.
For more insights on when pregnancy cravings typically start, be sure to check out this blog post.
And if you’re interested in capturing the beauty of your baby bump and those memorable cravings, remember I’m a London motherhood photographer and I’d be delighted to help you create some stunning maternity photos! 😊
Feel free to take a look at my maternity photography portfolio and get in touch for a friendly chat.
Photography by Valentina | Maternity Photographer London | 07577 978 246
Resources: she knows, BBC, Baby Centre
