Dealing with pregnancy cravings

More often than not, an expectant mother will experience at least one food craving at some point during their pregnancy.

Cravings can come out of nowhere and mums-to-be can sometimes feel overpowered by them. Most expectant mums will crave something that is sweet, although salty snacks, spicy cuisine and citrus fruits are also popular.

All pregnancies are different so cravings vary from person to person – some women may want red meat, eggs, pickles, curry, cheese or ice-cream, while others will prefer peaches, lemons, chilli peppers, grapefruit or oranges.

It is not just single food items that mums want either. Food combination cravings are quite popular, with many mums-to-be admitting they can’t resist pickles wrapped in cheese, marinated anchovies, sausages with strawberry jam, bacon and chocolate, beans with salad cream or aubergine on pizza.

In a small number of cases, women can suffer from a condition known as Pica, which causes them to crave non-food items, such as dirt. Pica sufferers have also been known to want to eat or chew on ice, toilet paper, newspaper, coal, sponges, soap, toothpaste, furniture polish, bleach and other non food substances.

Pica can be harmful for both you and your baby so it is important that you consult your GP if you find you are craving dangerous items. While you may be able to resist eating these products, cravings can sometime be incredibly overwhelming, so it’s always best to speak to a healthcare professional if you suspect you’re suffering from Pica.

The extreme hormonal changes women go through during pregnancy can have a huge impact on taste and smell. If you find you are becoming overwhelmed by your cravings, try to distract yourself. It is important that you exercise, get plenty of rest and use the support of friends and family. Also keep in mind that skipping breakfast can make cravings worse and while you can indulge the healthy cravings, it’s best to find an alternative for the less healthy ones.

While many expectant mothers experience some form of craving, not everyone does, so don’t worry if you don’t experience any; in fact you can count yourself lucky that you don’t.