Cravings aren't due to low willpower. They're a sign from the body that it's missing something.
Ever ignore a craving and have it come back later with a vengeance? *Raises hand*
Also, ever satisfy a craving and feel completely content and fulfilled? *Raises hand*
It’s easy to beat ourselves up about cravings, especially if we’ve grown up thinking they’re a sign of a weak person and low fortitude (that’s a deep convo about for another day).
But what if cravings are our body’s way of telling us that we need more of a specific nutrient? THIS, in my opinion, is the true biological purpose of cravings. And this is not a sign of weakness, but intelligent design.
This can be especially important to listen to when #TTC and #pregnant. Our need for micronutrients skyrockets. Cravings become all the more critical when building a baby.
Have you ever heard of a pregnant woman craving pickles and ice cream? While we like to poke fun at this and write it off as “it must be the hormones,” if we actually stop and think about it, she’s getting:
Pickles have generous amounts of Sodium/ This is critical for supporting blood volume jumps in mama and for the neurological development of baby.
Ice cream, depending on how it’s made, can have protein, fat-soluble Vitamins A and Đ, Vitamins B12, B2, B3, B5, Choline, Calcium, Magnesium, Z𐊈nc Selenium, and Iodine. These are ALL essential nutrients to support the proper growth and development of baby.
Have you ever heard of a woman craving chocolate during her period? We also write this off as “hormones,” but actually:
Chocolate contains generous amounts of Magnesium, which can help ease stomach cramps.
See what I’m getting at here?
On the topic of cravings, we should also talk about hyperpalatable foods, which are specifically engineered to be tastier and can potentially have an effect on cravings. These foods are usually very empty micronutrient-wise, so beware.
Want to learn more? I will be talking more about cravings and what they mean in my upcoming preconception course. Sign up via the link in my bio for updates!
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Not medical advice.
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This is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare professional before pursuing any changes to your personal healthcare regime.
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References
Licavoli, L. Hyperpalatable Foods. Retrieved from: https://casacaprirecovery.com/blog/hyperpalatable-foods/.
NutritionData. Milk, whole, 3.25% milkfat. Retrieved from: https://nutritiondata.self.com/facts/dairy-and-egg-products/69/2.
NutritionData. Pickles, cucumber, dill or kosher dill. Retrieved from: https://nutritiondata.self.com/facts/vegetables-and-vegetable-products/3006/2.
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