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Why Do Pregnant Women Crave Weird Foods?

"Hey Doc ,why do pregnant women have such weird food cravings?"

You've got me on this one. I'm stumped!

We aren't exactly sure what causes food cravings during pregnancy, but we have an idea.

Cravings probably have to do with changing hormone levels. Those hormonal see-saws can make you long for sardines and peanut butter one minute, and be totally grossed out by the sight of scrambled eggs the next.

Usually food cravings are nothing to worry about, but a small number of pregnant women crave non-foods like laundry starch, chalk, or dirt. It's called pica, and it can be really dangerous to both mother and baby.

If you've been eating healthfully during your pregnancy and you suddenly crave something unusual—as long as it's food—don't worry about giving in to it.

When else in your life can you get away with eating pickles and ice cream?


This entry last modified on: January 11, 2012 3:03 PM

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About the Video

What makes pregnant women crave pickles and ice cream? See if this question can stump Dr. Charlotte Grayson.

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