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why do I get pregnancy cravings?
Penny found 20 sources
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2 peer-reviewed research articles
3 articles from healthcare institutions
Why Pregnancy Cravings Happen: The Essentials
Pregnancy cravings are a common and well-recognized experience, but the exact reasons why they happen are not fully understood. The most accepted explanations point to a mix of hormonal changes, shifts in taste and smell, psychological factors, and possibly cultural expectations. There is no single cause, and cravings can be different for everyone.
Women’s Experience and Understanding of Food Cravings in Pregnancy: A Qualitative Study in women receiving prenatal care at the University of North Carolina- Chapel Hill - PMC
Women’s beliefs about why cravings ... the experience of cravings to physiological changes of pregnancy or requirements such as hormonal fluctuations or acute nutritional deficiencies....
An OB-GYN's Guide to Cravings During Pregnancy | Northwestern Medicine
Aversions, which often go hand ... caused by bacteria like listeria during pregnancy. "Some theories say that cravings help the body make up for nutritional deficiency," says Brittany Janelle Cline, MD, Northwestern Medicine OB-GYN. "For example, you might crave ice cream ...
Uncovering the Causes of Pregnancy Cravings
For instance, the most common cravings women experience during pregnancy are for fruit, milk, chocolate or other sweets. Craving fruit may indicate body levels low in vitamin C, or craving dairy may mean a deficiency in calcium. Craving more high-calorie sweets like ice cream can be related ...
Six popular types of food on pregnancy cravings lists - The Mother Baby Center
In general, food cravings when ... laugh about the foods they crave during their pregnancy. Every pregnancy is unique and it’s also normal to not have cravingsduringpregnancy. Read on to learn more about pregnancycravings and what causes them....
Pickles and ice cream! Food cravings in pregnancy: hypotheses, preliminary evidence, and directions for future research - PMC
In examining popular hypotheses regarding cravinginpregnancy their close resemblance to the theorized causes of perimenstrual chocolate craving is striking. Chocolate, by far the most commonly craved food in the U.S., is unique in many ways: it has a very recognizable smell, high caloric ...
What Might Be Behind Your Cravings
Hormonal Changes Can Affect Taste and Smell
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Pregnancy hormones, especially in early pregnancy, can heighten your senses of taste and smell. This can make certain foods more appealing or, in some cases, less tolerable (leading to aversions).
An OB-GYN's Guide to Cravings During Pregnancy | Northwestern MedicineAversions, which often go hand ... caused by bacteria like listeria during pregnancy. "Some theories say that cravings help the body make up for nutritional deficiency," says Brittany Janelle Cline, MD, Northwestern Medicine OB-GYN. "For example, you might crave ice cream ...Uncovering the Causes of Pregnancy CravingsFor instance, the most common cravings women experience during pregnancy are for fruit, milk, chocolate or other sweets. Craving fruit may indicate body levels low in vitamin C, or craving dairy may mean a deficiency in calcium. Craving more high-calorie sweets like ice cream can be related ...
- These hormonal shifts are thought to play a major role in why cravings feel so strong and specific.
Psychological and Emotional Factors
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Cravings are not just physical—they can also be influenced by emotions, stress, and even stories or suggestions from others. For example, hearing about someone else’s cravings can sometimes trigger your own.
Women’s Experience and Understanding of Food Cravings in Pregnancy: A Qualitative Study in women receiving prenatal care at the University of North Carolina- Chapel Hill - PMCWomen’s beliefs about why cravings ... the experience of cravings to physiological changes of pregnancy or requirements such as hormonal fluctuations or acute nutritional deficiencies....Uncovering the Causes of Pregnancy CravingsFor instance, the most common cravings women experience during pregnancy are for fruit, milk, chocolate or other sweets. Craving fruit may indicate body levels low in vitamin C, or craving dairy may mean a deficiency in calcium. Craving more high-calorie sweets like ice cream can be related ...
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Cultural expectations and social norms may also make it feel more acceptable to indulge in cravings during pregnancy, which can reinforce the experience.
Six popular types of food on pregnancy cravings lists - The Mother Baby CenterIn general, food cravings when ... laugh about the foods they crave during their pregnancy. Every pregnancy is unique and it’s also normal to not have cravingsduringpregnancy. Read on to learn more about pregnancycravings and what causes them....Pickles and ice cream! Food cravings in pregnancy: hypotheses, preliminary evidence, and directions for future research - PMCIn examining popular hypotheses regarding cravinginpregnancy their close resemblance to the theorized causes of perimenstrual chocolate craving is striking. Chocolate, by far the most commonly craved food in the U.S., is unique in many ways: it has a very recognizable smell, high caloric ...
Nutritional Needs: A Possible but Unproven Link
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Some theories suggest cravings might signal a need for certain nutrients (like craving dairy for calcium or fruit for vitamin C), but research does not consistently support this idea.
An OB-GYN's Guide to Cravings During Pregnancy | Northwestern MedicineAversions, which often go hand ... caused by bacteria like listeria during pregnancy. "Some theories say that cravings help the body make up for nutritional deficiency," says Brittany Janelle Cline, MD, Northwestern Medicine OB-GYN. "For example, you might crave ice cream ...Uncovering the Causes of Pregnancy CravingsFor instance, the most common cravings women experience during pregnancy are for fruit, milk, chocolate or other sweets. Craving fruit may indicate body levels low in vitamin C, or craving dairy may mean a deficiency in calcium. Craving more high-calorie sweets like ice cream can be related ...Pickles and ice cream! Food cravings in pregnancy: hypotheses, preliminary evidence, and directions for future research - PMCIn examining popular hypotheses regarding cravinginpregnancy their close resemblance to the theorized causes of perimenstrual chocolate craving is striking. Chocolate, by far the most commonly craved food in the U.S., is unique in many ways: it has a very recognizable smell, high caloric ...
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Most studies have not found a direct link between specific cravings and actual nutritional deficiencies.
Six popular types of food on pregnancy cravings lists - The Mother Baby CenterIn general, food cravings when ... laugh about the foods they crave during their pregnancy. Every pregnancy is unique and it’s also normal to not have cravingsduringpregnancy. Read on to learn more about pregnancycravings and what causes them....Pickles and ice cream! Food cravings in pregnancy: hypotheses, preliminary evidence, and directions for future research - PMCIn examining popular hypotheses regarding cravinginpregnancy their close resemblance to the theorized causes of perimenstrual chocolate craving is striking. Chocolate, by far the most commonly craved food in the U.S., is unique in many ways: it has a very recognizable smell, high caloric ...
Are Pregnancy Cravings Normal?
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Cravings are a normal part of pregnancy for many people and can start as early as the first trimester, often peaking in the second trimester.
Women’s Experience and Understanding of Food Cravings in Pregnancy: A Qualitative Study in women receiving prenatal care at the University of North Carolina- Chapel Hill - PMCWomen’s beliefs about why cravings ... the experience of cravings to physiological changes of pregnancy or requirements such as hormonal fluctuations or acute nutritional deficiencies....Uncovering the Causes of Pregnancy CravingsFor instance, the most common cravings women experience during pregnancy are for fruit, milk, chocolate or other sweets. Craving fruit may indicate body levels low in vitamin C, or craving dairy may mean a deficiency in calcium. Craving more high-calorie sweets like ice cream can be related ...
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The types of foods craved can vary widely and are often influenced by culture and personal preferences.
Women’s Experience and Understanding of Food Cravings in Pregnancy: A Qualitative Study in women receiving prenatal care at the University of North Carolina- Chapel Hill - PMCWomen’s beliefs about why cravings ... the experience of cravings to physiological changes of pregnancy or requirements such as hormonal fluctuations or acute nutritional deficiencies....Six popular types of food on pregnancy cravings lists - The Mother Baby CenterIn general, food cravings when ... laugh about the foods they crave during their pregnancy. Every pregnancy is unique and it’s also normal to not have cravingsduringpregnancy. Read on to learn more about pregnancycravings and what causes them....Pickles and ice cream! Food cravings in pregnancy: hypotheses, preliminary evidence, and directions for future research - PMCIn examining popular hypotheses regarding cravinginpregnancy their close resemblance to the theorized causes of perimenstrual chocolate craving is striking. Chocolate, by far the most commonly craved food in the U.S., is unique in many ways: it has a very recognizable smell, high caloric ...
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Not everyone experiences cravings, and that is normal too.
Six popular types of food on pregnancy cravings lists - The Mother Baby CenterIn general, food cravings when ... laugh about the foods they crave during their pregnancy. Every pregnancy is unique and it’s also normal to not have cravingsduringpregnancy. Read on to learn more about pregnancycravings and what causes them....
When to Talk to Your Doctor
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If you crave non-food items (like dirt, clay, or ice), this could be a sign of a condition called pica, which may be linked to iron deficiency or other health concerns. In these cases, it’s important to let your healthcare provider know.
Uncovering the Causes of Pregnancy CravingsFor instance, the most common cravings women experience during pregnancy are for fruit, milk, chocolate or other sweets. Craving fruit may indicate body levels low in vitamin C, or craving dairy may mean a deficiency in calcium. Craving more high-calorie sweets like ice cream can be related ...
- If cravings are leading to eating patterns that concern you or are affecting your health, your OB/GYN or midwife can help you find a balanced approach.
Wrapping Up: Understanding Your Cravings
Pregnancy cravings are a real and common part of the experience, likely caused by a combination of hormonal, psychological, and cultural factors. While they can sometimes feel intense or unusual, they are usually not a cause for concern. If you ever feel unsure about your cravings or if they involve non-food items, your healthcare provider can offer support and guidance tailored to your needs.
Women’s Experience and Understanding of Food Cravings in Pregnancy: A Qualitative Study in women receiving prenatal care at the University of North Carolina- Chapel Hill - PMC
Women’s beliefs about why cravings ... the experience of cravings to physiological changes of pregnancy or requirements such as hormonal fluctuations or acute nutritional deficiencies....
An OB-GYN's Guide to Cravings During Pregnancy | Northwestern Medicine
Aversions, which often go hand ... caused by bacteria like listeria during pregnancy. "Some theories say that cravings help the body make up for nutritional deficiency," says Brittany Janelle Cline, MD, Northwestern Medicine OB-GYN. "For example, you might crave ice cream ...
Uncovering the Causes of Pregnancy Cravings
For instance, the most common cravings women experience during pregnancy are for fruit, milk, chocolate or other sweets. Craving fruit may indicate body levels low in vitamin C, or craving dairy may mean a deficiency in calcium. Craving more high-calorie sweets like ice cream can be related ...
Six popular types of food on pregnancy cravings lists - The Mother Baby Center
In general, food cravings when ... laugh about the foods they crave during their pregnancy. Every pregnancy is unique and it’s also normal to not have cravingsduringpregnancy. Read on to learn more about pregnancycravings and what causes them....
Pickles and ice cream! Food cravings in pregnancy: hypotheses, preliminary evidence, and directions for future research - PMC
In examining popular hypotheses regarding cravinginpregnancy their close resemblance to the theorized causes of perimenstrual chocolate craving is striking. Chocolate, by far the most commonly craved food in the U.S., is unique in many ways: it has a very recognizable smell, high caloric ...
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Peer-Reviewed Research
Published, peer-reviewed scientific studies from journals or databases.
1
Women’s Experience and Understanding of Food Cravings in Pregnancy: A Qualitative Study in women receiving prenatal care at the University of North Carolina- Chapel Hill - PMC
Women’s beliefs about why cravings ... the experience of cravings to physiological changes of pregnancy or requirements such as hormonal fluctuations or acute nutritional deficiencies....
5
Pickles and ice cream! Food cravings in pregnancy: hypotheses, preliminary evidence, and directions for future research - PMC
In examining popular hypotheses regarding cravinginpregnancy their close resemblance to the theorized causes of perimenstrual chocolate craving is striking. Chocolate, by far the most commonly craved food in the U.S., is unique in many ways: it has a very recognizable smell, high caloric ...
Pickles and ice cream! Food cravings in pregnancy: hypotheses, preliminary evidence, and directions for future research - PMC
Women in the United States experience an increase in food cravings at two specific times during their life, (1) perimenstrually and (2) prenatally. The prevalence of excess gestational weight gain (GWG) is a growing concern due to its association with ...
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Source:
ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Clinical Guidelines & Professional Sources
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Medical & Academic Institutions
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2
An OB-GYN's Guide to Cravings During Pregnancy | Northwestern Medicine
Aversions, which often go hand ... caused by bacteria like listeria during pregnancy. "Some theories say that cravings help the body make up for nutritional deficiency," says Brittany Janelle Cline, MD, Northwestern Medicine OB-GYN. "For example, you might crave ice cream ...
3
Uncovering the Causes of Pregnancy Cravings
For instance, the most common cravings women experience during pregnancy are for fruit, milk, chocolate or other sweets. Craving fruit may indicate body levels low in vitamin C, or craving dairy may mean a deficiency in calcium. Craving more high-calorie sweets like ice cream can be related ...
4
Six popular types of food on pregnancy cravings lists - The Mother Baby Center
In general, food cravings when ... laugh about the foods they crave during their pregnancy. Every pregnancy is unique and it’s also normal to not have cravingsduringpregnancy. Read on to learn more about pregnancycravings and what causes them....
Why Pregnancy Can Make You Have Weird Cravings
Women who are experiencing iron ... often crave red meats to fulfill these mineral needs. Just remember, too much red meat may increase your risk of heart disease. The key to satisfying your craving for red meat without compromising your health is to choose leaner cuts. This means avoiding the fatty rib eye, and instead opting for sirloin cuts. During your pregnancy, you may feel ...
Pregnancy Cravings: What Do They Mean and What Should You Do? | Houston Methodist On Health
Find out the whys and whats of pregnancycravings here.
Are Cravings Caused By A Hormonal Imbalance? (Hint: Yes!): Christopher J. Riegel, M.D.: Hormone Replacement Specialist
Food cravings come in many forms – from the historically odd pregnancycravings (pickles and ice cream!) to late night snacks, and to chocolate (any time!).
Read full article
Source:
theriegelcenter.com
Why Pregnancy Can Make You Have Weird Cravings
Not all women get to fulfill their food dreams in a jar of pickles, but interesting food cravings are common when you’re expecting.
Am I Pregnant? Early Symptoms of Pregnancy & When To Test
One of the most common signs of pregnancy is a missed period. Other early signs include nausea, tender breasts and needing to pee more often.
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Source:
Cleveland Clinic
Your Pregnancy Food Cravings Explained
While the exact cause of cravings is unclear – they may be related to changes in hormones, indicate a deficiency in a particular vitamin or mineral, or urge women to eat food higher in calories and fat – most women will experience strong cravings during pregnancy.
Read full article
Source:
clinicsofia.com
Expectant Mothers Take Note: Pregnancy Food Cravings May Be Psychological - University at Albany-SUNY
ALBANY, N.Y. (November 3, 2014) -- Though reports have shown 50 to 90 percent of women experience food cravings during pregnancy, a University at Albany study found little evidence of craved foods balancing nutritional deficiencies.
Why do you crave sour, sweet, and salty foods during pregnancy? | Vinmec
Duringpregnancy, somepeople may change their eating habits. Researchers have provided evidence to explain this phenomenon as being related to hormones. The craving for sour, sweet, or salty foods in pregnant women is similar to the cravings experienced by women during different phases of ...
Daily Dose - What Your Pregnancy Food Cravings Really Mean
On the other hand, you might find yourself completely grossed out by your favorite foods – and even the thought of your go-to snacks might be enough to make you gag. So what gives? We can only guess what causes food cravings and aversions during pregnancy, but most bets are on hormones.
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Source:
Atrium Health
What Your Pregnancy Cravings Might Mean | Obstetrics & Gynecology located in Marietta and Powder Springs, GA | Marietta OB-GYN Affiliates
Pickles and ice cream? Cheeseburgers and chocolate malts? Pregnancycravings happen in most pregnancies, but what do they mean? Read on to learn more about pregnancycravings, what they mean, and how we can help.
Read full article
Source:
mariettaobgyn.com
General Health & Web Sources
Publicly available health-related articles from non-peer-reviewed sources. These may reference research or clinical guidelines, but are not primary sources.
The surprising reason why pregnant women get cravings
What’s behind pregnancycravings? Probably not what you’re thinking.
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Source:
BBC
Pregnancy Cravings: What They Mean and When They Start
Needing sweets or spicy food in pregnancy? Intense food urges are normal. But when do pregnancycravings start and how long do they last? Learn about common pregnancycravings and what they can mean.
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Source:
The Bump
Food cravings during pregnancy | Pregnancy Birth and Baby
Food cravings are sudden urges to eat a particular type of food. They are a real phenomenon and affect many females during pregnancy.
Pregnancy cravings: Weird cravings and when cravings start | BabyCenter
"There's no scientific explanation for food cravings. There's no data saying that what a woman craves is related to something her body or her baby needs, and there's no data to support that typical pregnancy food cravings are harmful, either," explains Brown.
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Source:
BabyCenter
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