How to Cope With Food Cravings During Pregnancy
Many women have experienced food cravings during the course of their pregnancy. Unfortunately, many of these cravings consist of chocolate, ice cream, and salty snack food. If this is your experience, it is OK to indulge occasionally. However, it is important to think of your baby and his nutritional needs as well. The following article will discuss how to deal with food cravings in a sensible manner.
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Things You'll Need
- Whole wheat snacks
- Low fat dairy products
- Graham crackers
- Fruits
- Vegetables
- Frozen yogurt
Instructions
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How to Cope With Food Cravings During Pregnancy
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Be sure to always eat a good breakfast. This will help you to cope with midmorning cravings. An example of a nutritious breakfast would be yogurt, fresh fruit, whole grain bagel with jam, and orange juice.
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Eat a well balanced diet. This means eating protein, low fat dairy, grains, vegetables, fruits. If you are able to maintain a healthy diet, indulging occasionally in one of your cravings will not cause problems for your baby.
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Try to exercise daily. Exercise is a good way to curb hunger and keep yourself motivated to eating healthy.
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Pay attention to your own emotional needs. During pregnancy, many women experience mood swings. You may be tempted to comfort yourself through food. Find someone supportive to talk with regularly throughout your pregnancy.
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Eat healthy alternatives to some of your favorite snacks. If you are craving ice cream, try frozen yogurt. Instead of doughnuts, try a whole grain bagel. Eat graham crackers instead of cookes.
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If you do occasionally indulge in your not-so-healthy cravings, practice moderation. Instead of an entire dish of ice cream, try to only eat a few spoonfuls.
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Tips & Warnings
Not all food cravings are bad. Many women crave dairy products, which are high in protein and calcium.
Cravings can change from day to to day. What you are craving today may disgust you tomorrow.
Some women will crave things that are not even food. This can include the desire to eat dirt, paper, rocks, or paint chips. This condition is known as Pica and may be a sign of iron deficiency. Be sure to talk with your doctor is you are experiencing symptoms of Pica.
Resources
- Photo Credit http://wwwdelivery.superstock.com/WI/223/1433/PreviewComp/SuperStock_1433R-143021.jpg, http://images.teamsugar.com/files/upl0/1/12981/08_2008/bagel.larger.jpg, http://healthinmotion.files.wordpress.com/2007/05/balanced_diet.jpg, http://www.instablogsimages.com/images/2007/09/29/moms-to-be-should-avoid-strenuous-exercises_5810.jpg, http://www.canoncitypregnancycenter.com/cms2/uploads/images/scaredpreg.jpg, http://farm1.static.flickr.com/51/141352636_5a24868086.jpg, http://www.chubbyhubby.net/blog/wp-content/themes/bionicjive/blogimages/mango_coconut_icecream2.jpg
