The "cravings" in pregnancy between myth and reality.

The term cravings means an intense desire to take certain foods, both sweet and salty, during pregnancy; foods that are sometimes not particularly appreciated before becoming pregnant.

Often the cravings are associated with a specific aversion to certain foods, while sometimes they manifest themselves as pica or the irrepressible desire to eat non-food substances: ice in particular but sometimes also earth, soap, even cigarette butts. According to some research, up to 40% of pregnant women report cravings, while pica appears to be much rarer.

What significance do these phenomena have?

The so-called birthmarks remain a phenomenon without certain scientific explanations.

According to some authors they are the expression of a particular need for carbohydrates (hence the more frequent desire for sweet foods) which increases during pregnancy, due to the effect of pregnancy hormones, while according to others they are an expression of a woman's psychological desire to be cared for and pampered. from your partner.

As for pica, some researchers have argued that it occurs due to particular dietary deficiencies (iron, magnesium) while the aversion to certain foods or potentially harmful substances (alcohol, carbonated soft drinks, coffee) could be an innate protection mechanism. towards pregnancy, but these data have never been proven by valid studies.

Are cravings dangerous for mom?

In an absolute sense, no. If obviously piche are excluded for some non-food substances such as earth and soap. It is always good to try not to overdo it, especially with carbohydrates, and try to control your cravings with a good breakfast in the morning, a mid-morning snack and a snack in the afternoon to avoid the onset of decreased hunger. of sugars. It is also a good support to ensure good emotional support during pregnancy from the family and your partner.

And for the baby?

On this you can be sure: the mother's cravings have no influence on the baby's health and in particular no danger of the infamous spots on the baby's skin if the mother does not take the foods she feels intense desire.

Also to dispel the myth that the cravings are particularly accentuated if you are expecting a male (hence the legend that they can be an indicator to know in advance the sex of the unborn child).

Finally, there is no relationship between the appearance of food cravings and having experienced stressful events or particularly intense fright.