Know about crazy pregnancy cravings and when they start

Introduction

Pregnancy Cravings aren’t something new when it comes to pregnancy. Especially in case of random cravings for strange food combinations like ice cream with cucumber & chips with cake, just to name a few. Every expectant mother experiences sudden cravings even when they aren’t their preferable tastes. In addition to the cravings, there can be instances when they are disgusted by a smell or flavour that they loved a few months back. These changes are a result of fluctuating hormonal levels, hence, women tend to crave more during their pregnancy. So if you’re one of them, put away the shy hat & give us a high five because we’re about to unveil more about this wonderful world of pregnancy cravings. 

List of Common Pregnancy Cravings

Sweet cravings:

Cravings for sweets are incredibly common during pregnancy, and may not have a specific meaning. However, too much sweet isn’t good, so it is recommended to limit too much sugar consumption.

Fast food cravings:

Fast food craving isn’t limited to expectant mothers only. But we all know fast food isn’t healthy either. Hence, especially for expectant mothers, it is advised to indulge in such cravings occasionally and try to maintain a healthy diet otherwise. It is also suggested to opt for a healthier alternative such as homemade air fryer fries or a slice of pizza loaded with fibre and vitamin-rich veggies.

Pickle cravings:

Pickles are the most common and classic pregnancy food cravings, and it’s totally fine to indulge in them. But be mindful of the quantities, as too much salt can worsen water retention in pregnancy.

Spicy food cravings:

Spicy cravings are again common in pregnancy. It’s fine to indulge as long as you’re not experiencing heartburn or stomach issues that might be harmful to you and your baby.

(https://flo.health/pregnancy/pregnancy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-weight/pregnancy-cravings)

How long do pregnancy cravings last?

Craving specific foods are often one of the earliest signs of pregnancy. If you do have cravings, they may last throughout your entire pregnancy, or they may fluctuate. Some women have food cravings early in pregnancy, while some don’t experience it at all.

However, there is no scientific evidence that pregnancy cravings are caused by lack of nutrients in the diet. But, if you find yourself craving things that aren’t food, like toothpaste, coal, or even soil, it is suggested to consult your gynaecologist. 

To conclude, try to eat as healthily as possible & keep those unhealthy temptations to a minimum!

(https://www.nhs.uk/start4life/pregnancy/pregnancy-faqs/#:~:text=If%20you%20do%20start%20having,stop%20in%20your%20third%20trimester.)

How common are pregnancy cravings?

Pregnancy cravings are a common occurrence. Most of them happen in the first trimester which can be both healthy and unhealthy.  Many expectant mothers have a specific or unusual food craving, but if there’s lack of cravings, it surely does not mean that things are going wrong. Craving generally occurs due to the hormonal changes that happen during your pregnancy and may have a powerful impact on your sense of smell and taste. (https://www.babycentre.co.uk/x1049139/is-it-normal-not-to-have-food-cravings-during-pregnancy)

What are pregnancy cravings?

Pregnancy cravings are sudden urges to eat a certain type of food or non-food such as soil or chalk. They are a real experience and affect many females during pregnancy. As mentioned above, most of the time, craving for common foods such as chocolate cake or apples can be induced, however other times, you might crave for foods that you normally don’t like. However, pregnancy cravings don’t hold any specific meaning. 

(https://www.pampers.com/en-us/pregnancy/prenatal-health-and-wellness/article/pregnancy-cravings)

What causes pregnancy cravings?

Pregnancy cravings can be caused by a number of things, including hormones, a heightened sense of smell and taste, and nutritional deficiencies. However, there is no evidence or a link between cravings and nutrient deficiency. But still, it’s better to keep your temptations around healthy food and try not to indulge more into the unhealthy ones.

(https://intermountainhealthcare.org/blogs/topics/intermountain-moms/2016/10/why-pregnancy-can-make-you-have-weird-cravings/#:~:text=Pregnancy%20cravings%20can%20be%20caused,can%20happen%20anytime%20during%20pregnancy)

When do pregnancy cravings start?

Cravings typically begin during the first trimester and peak in the second trimester but can happen anytime during pregnancy. For some women, pregnancy food cravings could start as early as five weeks into pregnancy.

Conclusion

One of the most frequent symptoms experienced by pregnant women is pregnancy cravings. The body of a pregnant woman goes through a lot of significant changes. They may thus exhibit a variety of physical and mental symptoms. One of the most typical symptoms of pregnancy is a sudden need for food or delicacies that a woman would ordinarily avoid. There is no need to worry as long as your body is receiving all the nutrition it needs. To conclude, there’s also no reason to feel bad about treating yourself now and then when it comes to pregnancy cravings, it’s entirely appropriate.