You’re eating for two! And sometimes your little one makes your body crave some of the ordinary such as sweets and savouries… or the downright odd.
If you’re an expecting mama, you’ve probably already experienced crazy food cravings at some point in your pregnancy. Pregnancy cravings are a real thing, and they can range from the classic ice cream and pickles to the downright bizarre, like dirt and soap! Yes, you heard right. While some cravings can be harmless, others can compromise your health and your baby’s. So today, we’re going to talk about 9 crazy cravings, and which ones to avoid at all costs.
Chalk And Soap
Craving non-food items like soap, dirt, chalk, and clay during pregnancy is known as Pica (PIE-kuh). This can be a result of mineral or other deficiencies in the diet, such as iron (anemia), calcium, and zinc. However, consuming these substances can interfere with nutrient absorption and potentially cause deficiencies. This, in turn, can impact the nutrients your baby receives during pregnancy and potentially lead to birth disorders.
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Dirt
Discover the fascinating phenomenon of pregnant women craving dirt, also known as Geophagia. While Pica involves consuming non-food substances, Geophagia specifically refers to the intentional and chronic consumption of earth. However, this seemingly harmless craving can actually pose serious risks to both the mother and the baby. Consuming soil can introduce harmful bacteria, fungi, helminthes, ova, radioactive materials, and toxic minerals into the body, potentially leading to intestinal blockages, constipation, gastrointestinal issues, and even blockages in the digestive system. Furthermore, soil high in potassium content can elevate the risk of cardiac arrhythmia or cardiac arrest. Stay informed about the potential dangers to ensure a healthy pregnancy journey.
Ice
A craving for ice is a common occurrence during pregnancy. It’s perfectly fine to indulge in a few ice cubes from time to time. This craving can be attributed to increased hormone production in your body, and it serves as a way to cool down and stay hydrated while dealing with the pressures of pregnancy. However, if you find yourself constantly eating ice, it could be a sign of low iron. If you experience other symptoms like fatigue, weakness, dizziness, lightheadedness, headaches, pale or yellowish skin, or shortness of breath, it could be anemia. It’s important to discuss this with your doctor to seek proper treatment. Leaving it untreated can lead to tooth damage, especially to the enamel, in the long term.
Potato Chips and Pickles
Satisfy your cravings with this irresistible salty snack combo. While it’s okay to indulge in moderation, it’s important to keep an eye on the high salt content. If you find yourself craving salt during pregnancy, it’s a sign that your body needs more sodium. Don’t worry, sodium deficiency is common during this time due to various factors like hormone levels and increased sweating. But here’s the good news – you can choose healthier options like sea salt or even better, pink Himalayan sea salt. These alternatives are loaded with minerals that aid in detoxification, muscle cramps, and circulation. Just remember not to go overboard, as excessive sodium can lead to fluid retention, swelling, and even high blood pressure. So go ahead, enjoy those chips, crackers, and pickles, but always find a balance and don’t overdo it.
Sour Stuff
Unlock the secret behind the craving for sour foods! While they may seem harmless, the acid and sugar that come with them can impact your enamel. What causes this craving? It could be a lack of Vitamin C or insufficient stomach acid. Vitamin C is essential when your body is under stress or battling colds and immune issues. Boost those levels by indulging in citrus fruit or peppers. And if you’re dealing with insufficient stomach acid, eating acidic foods can actually help combat this effect. Pay attention to your body – sour food cravings may be a telltale sign of stress.
Sweets
Indulging in sweet treats during pregnancy is common, but it’s important to make wise choices for your health. Instead of reaching for processed sweets with added sugars, opt for fresh fruit, yogurt, and dark chocolate. Natural sweeteners like honey or stevia are also a better choice. Craving sweets while pregnant can increase the risk of gestational diabetes. Additionally, consuming too much sugar during pregnancy can lead to obesity and hormonal imbalances. With all the changes happening in your body, an excess of sugary treats can even trigger thrush. When you need an energy boost or want to satisfy your sweet tooth, go for healthy baked treats, fruit, and natural sources. And if you still need something a little indulgent, remember to enjoy it in moderation.
Spicy Foods
Satisfy your cravings during pregnancy with hot wings and jalapenos! These common pregnancy cravings are a result of hormonal changes in your body. The hormones involved are leptin, responsible for energy balance, and serotonin, known as the happy hormone. Spicy foods can boost the levels of both. Enjoy spicy foods safely by consuming them in moderation to prevent heartburn, indigestion, or diarrhea. If you experience acid reflux or heartburn after eating spicy food, try soothing it with a glass of milk or antacids.
Sushi
Pregnant and craving sushi? Think again. It’s important to steer clear of this tasty treat to protect your baby from harmful bacteria and parasites. And if you’re salivating at the thought of raw or undercooked meat, hold back. You run the risk of food poisoning, which can lead to nasty infections like salmonella and E. coli. To be safe, it’s best to avoid undercooked, cured, or smoked meats and fish during pregnancy.
Cheese
Satisfying your cheese cravings while pregnant is completely normal. However, these cravings could be a sign that your body needs certain nutrients found in cheese, like calcium and protein. It could also indicate a need for a better balance of healthy fats and omega-3 fatty acids. Just remember to choose pasteurized cheese to avoid the potential risk of listeria. Listeria is a harmful bacteria that can lead to food poisoning, specifically a condition called listeriosis. Pregnancy hormones can weaken your immune system, putting you at a higher risk of developing listeriosis, which can have serious complications and even result in miscarriage.
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If you’re craving something that’s not on this list. Instead, opt for healthier snack options and always consult with your healthcare provider if you have any concerns. Remember, a healthy and happy mom means a healthy and happy baby! By nourishing the body with a healthy diet and avoiding certain foods, it is possible to fulfill cravings and ensure a healthy and safe pregnancy.
