Cravings & Aversions in Pregnancy: How to Navigate Food Mood Swings
Pregnancy is wild in all the best (and weirdest) ways. One minute, you’re dreaming about sour pickles and ice-cold oranges. The next? The sight of chicken makes you gag. Sound familiar?
You’re not alone—and you’re not broken. Food cravings and aversions are some of the most common (and most confusing) experiences during pregnancy.
So why does this happen—and what can you actually do about it?
Why Cravings & Aversions Happen
Hormones, baby. Specifically, increases in estrogen, progesterone, and hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) can all influence:
- Your sense of smell and taste
- Your appetite
- Your digestive system (hello nausea and bloating)
- Your brain's reward centers
That’s why you might suddenly crave something sweet and comforting—or avoid once-beloved foods without warning. It’s your body’s way of signaling what it thinks it needs (or doesn’t want to risk digesting right now).
Common Pregnancy Cravings
While every pregnancy is different, some of the most commonly craved foods include:
- Salty snacks like chips or olives
- Sweet treats like fruit, chocolate, and ice cream
- Citrus fruits (likely tied to vitamin C needs)
- Dairy (calcium + fat = satisfying)
- Carbs like bread, pasta, crackers—easy to digest and comforting
Pro tip: Your body often craves foods that give a quick hit of energy or comfort when blood sugar dips or digestion slows. Don’t guilt yourself—just pair those cravings with gentle nourishment.
Common Aversions
On the flip side, aversions can hit suddenly and hard. You might gag at the smell of eggs, meat, garlic, or even your favorite coffee.
These aversions may be your body's natural protective response during a time when your immune system is slightly suppressed. Think of it as your body being a little overcautious to keep baby safe.
How to Cope & Nourish Yourself
- Honor the craving—but balance it: Pair sweets with protein or fiber for longer energy.
- Keep “safe foods” on hand: Cold fruit, plain carbs, broth, crackers—whatever works!
- Don’t force it: Avoid foods that trigger nausea. Try again later or supplement differently.
- Try cold over hot: Cold meals are often easier to tolerate during queasy days.
- Snack smart and often: Eating every 2–3 hours can help regulate blood sugar and nausea.
Why We Made Due Date Prep Bars
Our snack bars were created with cravings and nutrition in mind—especially during the third trimester when energy dips and aversions spike.
- Made with real Medjool dates and clean ingredients
- OB-friendly and safe for labor prep starting at week 36
- Naturally sweet, iron-rich, and easy to digest
- Just two bars = your full daily dose of labor-supportive dates
Final Thoughts
Pregnancy isn’t about perfection—it’s about presence. Cravings and aversions are just your body talking to you.
Listen with compassion. Nourish gently. And snack on, mama. You’re doing great.