If you've suddenly found yourself craving pickles at midnight or can't stop thinking about chocolate, you're not alone! Pregnancy cravings are incredibly common and perfectly normal.
Why Do Pregnancy Cravings Happen?
The main culprit behind pregnancy cravings is hormonal changes in your body. These hormonal variations can explain why pregnant women often prefer certain foods over others.
Pregnancy hormones affect:
- Your sense of taste
- Your sense of smell
- Your food preferences
- Your appetite levels
Cravings Through the Trimesters
Interestingly, research suggests that cravings tend to follow a pattern throughout pregnancy:
First Trimester: Savoury Foods
During the first three months, many pregnant women crave savoury foods. This might include:
- Chips and salty snacks
- Cheese
- Pickles
- Savoury carbohydrates
Second Trimester: Sweet Foods
In the middle three months, the pendulum often swings towards sweet foods:
- Chocolate
- Ice cream
- Fruit
- Pastries and baked goods
Third Trimester: Salty Foods
The final trimester often brings cravings for salty foods:
- Crisps
- Salted nuts
- Olives
- Savoury crackers
Changes in Taste and Smell
It's not just about cravings - pregnancy can completely change how you experience food:
- Foods you loved before might suddenly taste awful
- You may develop a heightened sense of smell
- Some smells may trigger nausea
- You might discover new favourite foods
Tips for Managing Cravings
- Give in occasionally - it's okay to enjoy your cravings in moderation
- Find healthier alternatives - craving ice cream? Try frozen yogurt
- Stay balanced - make sure you're still getting essential nutrients
- Listen to your body - sometimes cravings indicate nutritional needs
- Stay hydrated - thirst can sometimes disguise itself as hunger
When to Be Concerned
While most cravings are harmless, contact your healthcare provider if you experience:
- Cravings for non-food items (called pica) like chalk, dirt, or ice
- Cravings that prevent you from eating a balanced diet
- Extreme food aversions affecting nutrition
What Were Your Cravings?
Every pregnancy is different, and so are the cravings! Some women crave spicy food, others want bland carbohydrates, and some lucky ones don't experience strong cravings at all.
Track your pregnancy journey with regular scans at Ultrasound Ireland. Book by calling 01 210 0232 or visit our pregnancy scans page.