Why do some pregnant women experience cravings for different types of foods during their pregnancy?

Question

Hello doctor,

What does it mean when you crave Chick-fil-A while pregnant? But I was hoping to focus on maybe why some women crave fast food, in general.
Why do some pregnant women crave fried food while pregnant?
Why do some pregnant women crave greasy and salty foods?
What about sweets like milkshakes (from CFA)?
Are there negative side effects to eating fast food while pregnant?
Is there any room for splurging every once in a while?

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

All cravings are due to the hormones active in the body of women during pregnancy. Hormones elevate the levels of senses, thus increasing cravings for certain foods. There is no harm if you have Chic-fil-A sometimes during pregnancy. The best fast foods during pregnancy are hamburgers, baked potatoes, beef tacos, and roasted beef sandwiches. Avoid grilled chicken, as it may have large sodium levels.

Salads with massive toppings.
Black bean and minestrone soups.
Smoothies due to significant carbohydrate levels.

Thank you.