What Are the Most Common Pregnancy Food Cravings?

There is a wide range of variety when it comes to pregnancy cravings. Some people have very atypical cravings that seem to come out of nowhere. However, there are some patterns that researchers have found when it comes to pregnancy cravings among U.S. women. According to one study, the most common pregnancy cravings include:1

• Sweets
• High calorie, savory carbohydrates such as pizza or chips
• Animal proteins
• Fruits

Other common pregnancy cravings include fast food, pickles, ice cream, fruit juice, dairy, vegetables, and chocolate. It is also quite common for pregnant people to crave odd combinations of their favorite foods, which might have to do with their altered smell and taste buds.

Maintaining a Healthy Relationship with Food During Pregnancy

In a general sense, there is no reason not to give in to your pregnancy cravings, as long as less nutritious foods are eaten in moderation and your overall diet is varied and nutrient-rich.

Pregnancy is most definitely not the time to diet, but it’s also the time to focus as much as possible on healthful choices. Eating a balanced, nutritious diet will keep both you and your baby healthy and ensure that you are strong for delivery and postpartum.

Your caloric needs will increase while you are pregnant. Although it will vary, you will need about an additional 500 calories a day while pregnant. However, try not to focus on the amount, but listen to your own hunger cues.

There are a few nutrients that you will need more of to help your baby grow and keep your body strong.

Calcium

You will need about 1,000 milligrams of calcium a day while pregnant. You can get calcium from dairy products, dark, leafy greens, fish, fortified cereals and juices, and nuts and sesame seeds.

Folic Acid

Folic acid is needed for your increased blood supply during pregnancy and to protect your baby from neural tub defects. Prenatal vitamins are great way to get your folic acid, but you can also get it through foods like green leafy veggies, nuts, beans, lentils, and citrus fruits.

Iron

Your iron needs increase during pregnancy, and you will need about 27 total mg of iron per day. It’s important that you eat iron rich foods such as whole grains, meats, dark leafy greens, beans, and nuts, and that you take a supplement if you end up experiencing anemia during pregnancy.

Protein

Your protein needs will increase as well during pregnancy, to an average of about 75 grams per day. You can get your protein from a variety of sources, including meats, fish, eggs, nuts, peas, beans, and soy products.

Foods to Avoid During Pregnancy

There are some foods that are best avoided during pregnancy, because of their risk of harming your baby or causing premature delivery. These are generally foods that may cause bacterial contamination and include:

• Deli meats and luncheon meats
• Soft cheeses
• Sushi
• Undercooked meats