The hormonal roller-coaster inside every pregnant woman’s body causes hunger pangs and insatiable cravings she gets. Due to the enhanced sense of smell and taste, women develop a fondness towards multiple foods that may be unhealthy for them. Here are 10 tricks and tips that expecting mothers can follow to overcome cravings effectively.
1. Never Skip Breakfast
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. While this applies to every other person, it is crucial for pregnant moms to eat their morning meal at any cost. You definitely wouldn’t skip feeding your baby its breakfast after birth, the same applies when it is still in your womb. Your little one needs a constant supply of nutrients. Mommy skipping breakfast means the baby getting robbed of food required for its growing needs.
2. Eat Often
Eat small meals throughout the day. That doesn’t mean you need to eat for two. Engage your mouth in eating 6 mini meals, instead of 3 regular meals a day. This may seem strange when you are constantly doing trips to the toilet, but eating little and often can actually help with morning sickness. Keep small snacks handy between meals to overcome cravings.
3. Exercise Regularly
Regular exercising can help you stay healthy and happy during pregnancy. Exercising balances the flood of hormones, relieves stress and develops stamina required for labor and delivery. It is the best way to curb your hunger pangs, and keep your mind off food. It is advised to exercise with caution, and consult your health expert before you start exercising.
Note: Exercising can be risky if you have any of the below conditions.
- Bleeding or spotting
- Low placenta
- Threatened or recurrent miscarriage
- Previous premature births or history of early labor
- Weak cervix
4. Think Small
If you can’t fight your cravings, try practicing portion control. For instance take a small plate of chips instead of grabbing a bagful of them. Don’t put a stop to your cravings altogether. Satisfy yourself with a tiny piece of chocolate, and keep the rest of the bar away. Eat a smaller bar, which will satisfy your craving but won’t hamper your health.
5. Seek Support
Mood swings are another culprit that trigger your cravings and lead to emotional eating. Seeking emotional support from family and friends can help you overcome cravings. Speak about your fears and apprehensions to your loved ones, get a bear hug from your partner – all this will help you relax and subside your cravings.
6. Snack Healthy
You tend to reach out for sugary and unhealthy foods while craving. Include a healthy snack between meals. Plan your snacks in advance. Keep fruits, nuts and other nutritious munchies handy.
7. Stock Up Smart
If your fridge stocks up with candy bars, you are sure to grab one every time you feel hungry. Instead, fill your shopping cart and your fridge with nuts, green veggies and lots of fruits. When you stock your home with nutrient-rich and healthy foods, you will automatically eat healthily.
8. Throw The Junk Out
Remember how as kids, your mom kept all the cookies from you if you overate? – Apply this technique to yourself, and avoid eating junk food. The best way is to keep the junk food out of your own reach – neither in your cupboard nor inside your fridge.
9. Try Healthy Recipes
If you plan to cook, make your meals exciting by experimenting with new recipes and flavors. Satiate your hunger with your favorite vegetables, and enjoy your meal heartily. You are less likely to feel hungry later.
10. Find Substitutes
Sugar craving is common during pregnancy. Eat a sweet or a juicy apple if you crave for a piece of cake. If you have the urge to drink a cola, opt for fruit juice instead. Substitute processed food with natural alternatives.
While women have strong cravings, they even develop aversions to some foods. These mostly include those that have a strong taste or smell. Some women even crave non-food things like mud, soap and hair that should be completely controlled.
