How to deal with cravings during pregnancy

Pregnancy cravings are pretty odd, aren’t they? Pickle sandwiches, crisps dipped in yoghurt. You laughed along when your mates told you about them but never quite ‘got it’.  Now, your body (or just your bump) is crying out for some weird and — almost disgusting-sounding — combinations. Get this, scientists still don’t understand, or at least agree on, why pregnancy cravings happen. If you’re reading this in your first trimester, hold tight because they get stronger come your second before disappearing in your third, as if your pizza and custard craving never happened.

Get healthy

Obviously, you’re encouraged to give into your healthy cravings. You must be growing a good one if your bump is telling you to eat something nutritious, even if it is strawberries with a side of raw carrot.

Give in, sometimes

We’re no saints. Sometimes we crave carbohydrates and everything beige, and this can be even more common in pregnancy, particularly the early months. If this is the only food you can stomach and gives you a hit of energy then don’t worry, just try to get a balanced range of whole foods, including good sources of protein and plenty of fruit and veg most of the time. Try making a smoothie in the morning with a range of fruit & vegetables and even some seeds.

A handy tip is to keep snacks like nuts with you at all times, and when that craving hits, combine a few nuts or seeds with that piece of cake, it will help with your blood sugar control and keep you fuller longer.

Don’t take any risks

You’ve heard the warnings about what to avoid during pregnancy – no alcohol, raw eggs, meat or seafood or unpasteurised milks and cheeses. Your cravings for those will have to wait until after you have welcomed baby, although if you are breastfeeding there are also foods to avoid at that time (don’t worry, this isn’t forever!)

Wait for the craving to pass

Try other distractions, call a friend or go for a walk, scroll through Instagram or listen to a podcast. Then see if you still fancy a snack.

Don’t skip breakfast

We don’t want to sound like we’re telling you what to do, but breakfast deserves a moment on the soapbox. If you start the day with something wholesome and healthy – including a source of protein – you’ll be set up well for the day ahead. How about adding seeds on your porridge or spreading some sugar free nut butter on your wholegrain toast?

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