For Moms

Food Cravings

You're not crazy. You're hormonal. Or at least it's a possibility. Doctors believe that food cravings may be the result of hormonal changes that can heighten your sense of smell and alter your perception of taste, for better or worse.

Q: Does everyone crave fries and chocolate?

A: Not exactly. But most pregnant women report craving unusual combinations. Generally things like sweets, fruits, fruit juices, sour fruits, salty or spicy foods, bland foods, and crunchy or chewy foods.

Q: Why can't I stand the sight of my favourite foods these days?

A: Your changing hormones can also change your perception of smell and taste, which can bring on food aversions. If you have an aversion to a healthy food, try substituting another one that has the same nutrients.

Find Out What Foods Have the Nutrients You Need

Q: Why do I suddenly have a bionic sense of smell?

A: Hormones can do that during pregnancy. Strong smells, like brewing coffee or perfumes, can bother you more now, or even make you feel queasy.

Find Some Tips To Help With Nausea

Q.  Is there a way to manage your cravings?

A.  Sure. By choosing foods that will satisfy your appetite while serving up important nutrients. If you have a sweet tooth for example, try strawberries or orange sections dipped in chocolate. Or if you're feeling the urge for salty chips, try roasted sweet potato fries with a sprinkle of salt.

Of course, if your cravings leave you hungry all the time, you may want to start eating smaller, more frequent meals. Also, be sure to drink lots of water to help fill you up. And try filling your plate with fibre-rich foods to help yourself feel full.

Whatever you do though, don't skip breakfast. Not eating in the morning can escalate your cravings later in the day.