From fish burgers to vanilla marshmallows and even dirt, pregnancy cravings can be as diverse as they are peculiar. A surprising 90% of pregnant individuals report experiencing at least one craving, particularly during the first trimester. However, the reasons behind these cravings remain relatively unexplored. Cultural influences likely play a role, as research indicates that pregnant women in Nigeria tend to crave fruits and vegetables, while those in the United States often desire chocolate.
Among the most frequently mentioned cravings are salty foods, a trend noted by Melanie McGrice, a prenatal dietitian based in Melbourne. She explains that these cravings might indicate inadequate water intake, as fluid requirements increase by about 150% during pregnancy, with the overall blood volume rising by 45%. “Most women’s fluid intake does not increase,” McGrice says, adding that consuming more salty foods leads to water retention, which is not an ideal solution. “The best approach is simply to drink more water,” she advises.
Cold, sweet foods like ice cream and milkshakes are also common cravings. According to Lora Attia, a fertility and prenatal dietitian, these cravings may stem from fluctuating blood sugar levels, which can occur even in those without diabetes. Additionally, cravings for such treats could signal a need for calcium, as pregnancy enhances the body’s ability to absorb this essential nutrient. While pregnant individuals require about 1,300 mg of calcium per day for those aged 18 and under and 1,000 mg for those aged 19-50, many often turn to ice cream, which is not the best source. For instance, a half-cup of ice cream contains approximately 78 mg of calcium, while the same amount of tofu offers about 160 mg. “I rarely see women opting for tofu for their calcium needs,” Attia notes. She recommends milk instead, as it provides calcium, a refreshing temperature, and a lower glycemic index without excessive sugar.
Cravings can sometimes extend to red meat, which can pose challenges for vegetarians and vegans. McGrice emphasizes that such cravings may indicate a need for iron, prompting discussions about whether individuals wish to boost their iron intake through dietary changes or by including red meat during pregnancy.
Some cravings can be even more perplexing, such as those for non-food items like chalk, ice, or dirt. This phenomenon, known as pica—derived from the Latin term for magpie due to its tendency to collect unusual items—affects an estimated 4% of pregnant women. While there is some evidence linking pica to iron deficiency, it does not fully explain why cravings extend to non-nutritive substances.
Associate Professor Allison Cummins, a midwifery researcher at the University of Newcastle, notes that pregnancy cravings tend to be more intense than typical food desires. She recalls her own overwhelming craving for ice during her pregnancy, even resorting to sneaking ice from laboring patients.
While indulging in cravings occasionally is acceptable, Cummins warns against the “eating for two” mentality. “Women are fully capable of growing a baby without needing to double their food intake,” she asserts. Overindulging in high-sugar, high-fat, and high-carb foods can lead to excessive weight gain, gestational diabetes, and potential long-term metabolic effects on the baby.
Maintaining a healthy diet during pregnancy is crucial for both mother and child, but Attia acknowledges the challenges posed by cravings and food aversions. “Many women enter pregnancy with plans to eat healthily, but the symptoms and side effects can make this difficult,” she explains. Balancing cravings with nutritional needs is essential for a healthy pregnancy.
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