Craving Sweets During Pregnancy? Doctor Explains Why It Happens And When It Becomes Dangerous

Pregnancy is a whirlwind of change, and the attraction for sweets, because, for instance, chocolate, ice, and falooda, and now gulab jamun, seems like the pull of a magnet, can be quite puzzling. According to doctors, the reasons for the condition have much to do with the hormonal balance, a rise in the levels of female sex hormones like estrogen and progesterone, a combination that affects the taste buds and blood sugar. Exhaustion caused by the presence of a developing life inside your womb increases the demand for a quick fix in the form of sugary foods, while the nausea experienced in the first trimester causes a dislike for non-nutritional foods, so the love for sweets begins.

Not all sweet cravings in the pregnancy period are harmless fun, but understanding the reason can always help you navigate safely. Trends in health and wellness suggest that sweet cravings peak in the second trimester because the growing baby needs glucose or even because of the mother's low levels of nutrients like magnesium or chromium. In conversation with The Daily Jagran, Dr Sushruta Mokadam, consultant obstetrician at Motherhood Hospital, Kharadi, Pune shares why women crave sweets during pregnancy and when it becomes dangerous.

Understanding Sugar Cravings In Pregnant Women

The Causes Behind Sugar Carvings In Pregnant Women

Sugar cravings during pregnancy are associated with hormonal fluctuations, that is, estrogen and progesterone, which can impact the appetite. Dr Sushruta Mokadam states, “The body also needs more energy during pregnancy, leading to a natural desire for quick, high-calorie foods like sweets or desserts.”

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Various health problems in pregnant women due to unmanaged cravings: However, when these cravings go unmanaged, they can lead to weight gain, fatigue, and spikes in blood glucose levels. Hence, many women may get gestational diabetes.

Gestational Diabetes Is Commonly Seen In Women

So, gestational diabetes can develop when the body cannot effectively use insulin during pregnancy. It not only increases the risk of high birth weight and delivery complications but also can make women prone to type 2 diabetes. Dr Sushruta Mokadam shares, It is a known fact that gestational diabetes often causes increased thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, and blurred vision.” If unmanaged, it can lead to high birth weight, premature delivery, and a higher risk of type 2 diabetes for both mother and baby. Hence, managing sugar intake becomes an essential part of prenatal care.

Sweet Cravings During Pregnancy (Image Credits: Canva)

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What To Keep In Mind?

It is necessary to control your cravings and stay healthy. Make sure to eat a well-balanced diet that consists of whole grains, proteins, and fibre-rich foods to keep you full longer. Include foods such as berries, apples, or dates instead of pastries or sweets. Dr Sushruta Mokadam mentions, “Say NO to desserts, avoid having donuts, biscuits, ice creams, colas, sodas, and canned juices; they contain too much sugar and calories. Stay hydrated by drinking a lot of water, as thirst can be mistaken for hunger or sugar craving.” Try to eat small, frequent meals to prevent sudden drops in blood sugar that trigger cravings. Rest enough, as being tired can make you crave sugar. Eat mindfully, slow down, and enjoy your meals to reduce emotional eating. Pregnant women should take the help of an expert and follow the guidelines given without fail.

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All expectant mothers should make small changes in diet and lifestyle, which can make a big difference, ensuring a safe, sweet, and healthy journey for both mother and baby. So, mothers, stay vigilant, tame your cravings, and lead a healthy life.