When you’re pregnant, there are two main types of morning sickness you might experience.
While traditional morning sickness usually means being unable to eat, pregnancy cravings make you feel better when you do eat.
Both of these symptoms stem from pregnancy hormones, but they manifest differently and require different approaches to manage.
Morning sickness typically occurs between weeks 4 and 9 of pregnancy and usually eases around weeks 12 to 16. The main symptoms are nausea and vomiting, which often hit hardest in the morning. This experience is caused by a surge in human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and progesterone, hormones that slow the digestive system in early pregnancy.
Some pregnant women can’t even stand the smell of certain foods, and in extreme cases, they might struggle to keep water down. If these symptoms become severe and persistent, it’s called hyperemesis gravidarum. This condition can lead to dehydration and weight loss, potentially requiring medical intervention.
On the flip side, pregnancy cravings are all about intense desires for specific foods. You might often reach for salty snacks, carbs, or sweets than usual. Some women even start craving foods they usually dislike. While we’re not entirely sure why cravings happen, some experts think it’s your body’s way of getting the nutrients it needs during pregnancy.
Research also suggests that cravings might be linked to blood sugar fluctuations. If you’re giving in to intense cravings too often, you could end up gaining weight rapidly, which increases your risk of gestational diabetes or high blood pressure. So it’s essential to keep those cravings in check.
Focus on maintaining a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle habits to manage both morning sickness and cravings efficiently. If morning sickness hits you hard, try eating small, frequent meals and sipping natural remedies like ginger tea or lemon water.
Avoiding an empty stomach and greasy or strongly scented foods is also a good idea. Regarding cravings, opt for protein-rich and high-fiber foods to help curb your appetite and prevent overeating. And remember, while it’s okay to indulge occasionally, try to limit those sugary treats.
Most women find that morning sickness and cravings naturally taper off as they enter the second trimester. However, if your symptoms are severe or seriously impacting your daily life, don’t hesitate to ask your healthcare provider for advice.
