Pick Some Pregnancy Cravings And We'll Reveal If The Room Should Be Pink Or Blue
- by Laura Martisiute
- – on
- in Lifestyle
Those who find themselves suddenly and inexplicably craving foods that they have never particularly liked might want to go out and purchase a pregnancy test. Indeed, strange and uncontrollable cravings are one of the many telltale signs that a woman is pregnant. Suddenly, weird combinations such as ice cream and pickles seem like the most delicious thing ever, and it doesn't matter in the slightest that those around can't seem to understand the concoction's appeal.
According to WebMD, no one really knows why pregnant women crave the strangest of things. However, some believe that it is because pregnant women are lacking some kind of nutrient and that the cravings are the body's way of asking for whatever nutrient it is that it needs. For example, women that crave pickles or processed cheese might be lacking sodium whereas women that are desperate for a plate of fries might be lacking potassium.
In addition, because pregnant women experience increased hormonal activity, some might find that their sense of taste and their sense of smell have been heightened. As such, certain foods might seem more vile than usual whereas other foods might seem more enticing. Curiously enough, some people believe that one can tell the gender of one's baby by simply looking at one's food cravings. Not sure whether to paint the nursery pink or blue? Then why not give this quiz a go!
Waffles?
One doesn’t have to be pregnant to crave waffles. As everyone is without doubt well aware, waffles are made from delicious cake batter that has been baked – and made crispy – in a waffle maker. It is incredibly easy to make waffles but one needs to have a waffle maker (there is no way around it). Waffles are often eaten as a breakfast food or as a dessert. They can be topped with chocolate, fresh berries or cream. Pregnant women often opt for rather bizarre toppings.
Sauerkraut?
Pregnant women who crave all things sour often reach for sauerkraut. Sauerkraut is basically sour cabbage. It can be bought in store or it can be made at home. It is actually very easy to make. All you do is cut raw cabbage into thin strips and then ferment it. Apart from its unique taste, the best thing about sauerkraut is probably its long shelf life. Buy it in store or make it at home and then forget about it – it is not going to go bad!
Tuna pasta?
Women who under normal circumstances dislike tuna often find that they are craving it now that they are carrying a tiny human being inside them. Some pregnant women choose to eat tuna right from the can, whereas others like to add it to other dishes. Tuna salads are very popular with pregnant women. There are numerous ways that one can make a tuna salad. For example, one can opt for the easiest option and simply mix tuna with sweetcorn and mayonnaise. Or one can add tuna to a pasta salad.
Pickles?
Almost every pregnant woman craves pickles – pickled cucumbers – at one point or another during her pregnancy. There are numerous ways to prepare pickles. For example, cucumbers can be pickled in vinegar or in brine. They are then put aside and left to ferment. Pickles might not be rich in vitamins and minerals but according to Health Line, they are full of probiotics. They also offer antioxidant protection and can even help fight certain types of cancer. However, according to some studies pickles might also increase the risk of stomach cancer!
Tacos?
Tacos need no explaining – we have all had this delicious dish that originated in Mexico at one point or another in our lives and we have all loved it. Tacos are made from tortillas – either wheat tortillas or corn tortillas – that are crammed with a number of delicious fillings. These fillings can include things such as chicken, beef, seafood, vegetables (think lettuce, tomatoes, onions, chili pepper and avocados), cheese, guacamole, and cilantro. The tortillas are then folded around the ingredients and are eaten with no utensils.
Strawberries?
Even those who don’t particularly like fruit are not indifferent to strawberries. Strawberries stand out from other fruits and berries thanks to their bright red color, their juiciness and of course, their sweetness (provided that they are ripe). Strawberries are grown all over the world and can be purchased at any grocery store or at any local farmers market. Strawberries are not only delicious – they also come with a variety of health benefits. According to Well Within Beauty, they improve one’s immune system and promote healthy eyesight!
Milkshakes?
Quite often, pregnant women crave healthy foods such as fruits and vegetables. However, other times they crave unhealthy things such as milkshakes. Milkshakes are cold beverages that are made from either milk or ice cream. They are usually very sweet and come in a variety of flavors, including vanilla, strawberry, chocolate, and caramel. Milkshakes can be made at home but it is much easier to buy them out. Indeed, almost every fast food restaurant has a wide selection of delicious milkshakes.
Pancakes?
Who doesn’t love pancakes? Pancakes are delicious, flat cakes that are more often than not made from a batter that contains eggs and milk. There are numerous methods that can be employed to make pancakes. For example, some pancakes are made in a pan, others are made in the oven and still others are made using a pancake machine. Pancakes are often considered to be a breakfast food but can of course also be eaten as a snack or as a dessert.
Onion soup?
Onion soup is just that – soup that has been made from onions. It is very popular in France where it is often served as a starter. If you’ve ever made onion soup then you are probably well aware that the main ingredients used in this soup are stock (usually chicken or beef stock but vegetarians can also opt for vegetable stock), onions (that have been caramelized in a pan), croutons (or alternatively, toast) and grated cheese. The last two ingredients are added to the soup at the very end.
Millionaires Shortbread?
Without doubt one of the tastiest – and most indulgent – desserts out there, millionaire’s shortbread is made using shortbread, caramel and either milk chocolate or dark chocolate. This dessert is prepared in stages. The shortbread is made first and then after that, the caramel. The caramel is poured over the shortbread and then a short while later the chocolate is poured over the caramel. The dessert is then placed in the fridge for an hour or two (or preferably, overnight). Once cooled, the cake is cut into rectangular pieces.
Potato chips?
Potato chips are basically very thin slices of potato that have been deep fried (although sometimes these thin potato slices are also baked). Potato chips are known for being very crunchy. It is perhaps this crunchiness that makes them so delicious. They are usually eaten as a snack or as an appetizer. Potato chips are almost always salted. However, they can also come in a variety of different flavors too. For example, it is not unusual to see potato chips flavored with various herbs, spices and even cheeses.
Cheerios?
Cheerios is a type of cereal that is very popular in countries all over the world. Indeed, quite a few of us eat this cereal for breakfast on a daily basis. As such, it is not at all unusual that pregnant women crave Cheerios. However, it is worth mentioning that quite a few pregnant women skip the milk and eat the cereal right out of the box. Not feeling like plain Cheerios? Then you could go for one of its varieties, such as Honey Nut Cheerios.
Nectarines?
Nectarines are very similar to peaches, at least in the way that they look. However, unlike peaches, nectarines have a smooth skin (as opposed to a fuzzy skin). They are just as delicious as peaches (indeed, according to some people they taste almost the same and as such can be interchanged in various recipes) and have just as many health benefits. For example, according to Very Well Fit, nectarines are a great source of fiber and a good source of vitamin C.
Onion rings?
Onion rings are basically “rings” that are made from onions. But how do you make onion rings? Well, basically, you take the cross-sectional ring of an onion and dip it in either batter or breadcrumbs. These battered onions are then deep-fried. Onion rings are often eaten as a snack or as a side dish. They can be ordered at fast food restaurants or alternatively they can be made at home. They are obviously not very healthy but sometimes you simply can’t fight those cravings!
Mac and Cheese?
Mac and cheese is the ultimate comfort food and as such it comes as no surprise that so many pregnant women crave it. Mac and cheese is very easy to make (but of course can be bought premade too). Indeed, all one requires is macaroni pasta, cheddar sauce (or alternatively béchamel sauce mixed with cheddar), milk, flour and butter. Sometimes other ingredients such as meat, vegetables and breadcrumbs are also added, depending on who is making this delicious dish. Macaroni and cheese is usually cooked in the oven.
Olives?
Olives is another food that quite a few pregnant women crave. Olives are small fruit that grow on olive trees. Olives come in quite a few varieties. However, most people choose the type of olives they want to go with depending on their color. Some olives are black whereas others are green. Because olives are a fruit they are obviously quite healthy. According to Health Line, olives are a powerful antioxidant. They are high in vitamin E, iron, calcium and copper.
Hummus?
Hummus is a delicious Levantine dip that quite a few of us eat as a snack on a daily basis. Hummus can be bought in most grocery stores around the world. However, it is also quite easy to make at home, provided that you have a blender. Indeed, all one requires for this hearty dip is chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic and salt. Blend all the ingredients together and you will end up with the most delicious hummus that you have ever tasted.
Ice Cubes?
This one is kind of unusual. Ice cubes are not technically a food and yet quite a few pregnant women crave them. Why? According to Belly Belly, craving ice cubes is known as a form of pica. Pica refers to the strange craving of non-edible items such as ice cubes, clay, toothpaste and even sand. Apparently, this eating habit is quite compulsive. Unfortunately, the non-edible items hold absolutely no nutritional value. It is uncertain as to why some pregnant women experience pica but it might have something to do with iron deficiency.
Peanut Butter?
Most of us happily eat peanut butter straight out of the jar so it is not at all surprising to see pregnant women do it too. Peanut butter is a delicious spread that is made from peanuts. Realistically, that is all it should contain (and perhaps a little bit of salt). However, some commercial brands also add vegetable oils and sweeteners to their peanut butter. While peanut butter is delicious on its own, it can also be spread on toast or crackers.
Tomato juice?
Tomato juice is just that – juice made from tomatoes. Tomato juice has a very particular taste and is certainly not for everyone. Curiously, some pregnant women find that that they crave tomato juice even though under normal circumstances they detest it. According to Livestrong, unlike most foods, tomatoes do not lose their nutritional value when they are juiced or cooked. As such tomato juice is a good source of vitamin A and vitamin C. However, keep in mind that tomato juice also contains sodium. Sodium is good in small amounts but too much of it can cause serious health problems.
Nutella?
When it comes to spreads, there is probably no spread that is more popular than Nutella. Nutella is a hazelnut and chocolate spread that has won the hearts of children, teens and even adults all over the world. Of course, Nutella is not exactly healthy. Indeed, Nutella contains not only hazelnuts, cocoa solids and milk powder but also an excessive amount of sugar and palm oil. As such, if at all possible it is a good idea to make chocolate hazelnut spread at home.
Toast?
Toast is basically slices of bread that have been toasted. While one can use any bread at hand, most people tend to use white bread that is sold already pre-sliced. Of course, those individuals who are health conscious might want to use whole wheat bread instead. Toast is often eaten as a breakfast meal and is usually topped with butter, jam or marmalade. Some people also like to add peanut butter or even eggs and baked beans onto their toast.
Tuna sandwiches?
Pregnant women who crave tuna don’t necessarily have to eat tuna straight from the can. They can have a tuna salad or a tuna sandwich instead. A tuna sandwich is a popular choice among pregnant women. A tuna sandwich consists of bread that has been filled with tuna, sweetcorn, mayonnaise and lettuce (and in some cases, pepper). While some people find this combination kind of gross, others can’t think of anything more delicious. Tuna sandwiches are often eaten for lunch.
Pasta?
Pasta is without doubt one of the most versatile foods out there. There are numerous ways to prepare pasta so it makes sense that pregnant women often opt for this dish. After all, you can add whatever ingredients you want to it. Go for sauces, meats, tuna, and cheeses. Make it as light or as heavy as you want. Pasta is not only comforting but also very filling. You probably won’t be hungry for hours after you eat a pasta dish.
Potato salad?
A potato salad is a salad that has been made using potatoes. Indeed, potatoes are this salad’s main ingredient, as the name no doubt makes it clear. Apart from potatoes, one can also add herbs and vegetables to this salad. All the ingredients are usually topped with mayonnaise (or in some cases, yogurt or even sour cream). This salad is often served as a side dish. For example, it is not unusual to see this salad served alongside meat dishes.
Twinkies?
Twinkies are basically small golden sponge cakes that are filled with a creamy filling. As most people will without doubt agree, they are incredibly delicious. However, as is the case with most commercially produced desserts, they are not actually good for you. Indeed, according to Fooducate, the ingredients that Twinkies are made from include not only wheat flour and sugar but also chemicals that come in powder form, artificial flavors and numerous additives, none of which are good for one’s health.
Mushy peas?
Mushy peas are obviously peas that have been turned into a slushy paste. Mushy peas are easy to make at home. All you have to do is soak dried peas overnight with sodium bicarbonate and then rinse the peas the next morning. Then, simmer the peas with a little bit of salt and sugar until they turn mushy. Add some mint if you’re feeling fancy. Mushy peas often accompany meat dishes. They are also often served alongside fish and chips.
Lemons?
Some pregnant women are all about sour foods which is where lemons come in. Most of us wouldn’t eat lemons on their own – we might squeeze some lemon juice into hot water or onto our fish. However, some pregnant women like to eat actual lemon slices so as to satisfy their cravings. Lemons are incredibly beneficial to one’s health. According to Health Line, lemons are a great source of vitamin C and might even reduce the risk of having a stroke. They might also reduce the risk of contracting a heart disease!
Cheesy Twists?
Cheesy twists are an incredibly tasty snack. They are for sale in most grocery stores around the world (either in the fresh baked goods section or in the snack section) but are also easy to make at home. Indeed, the only ingredients that you need to make these delicious twists are puff pastry and parmesan cheese (or really any cheese of your choice). Sprinkle the parmesan cheese between two sheets of pastry, cut the pastry into ribbons and bake them in the oven.
Beef Ramen?
Pretty much everyone knows that Ramen is a Japanese dish that is made using noodles and either meat broth or fish broth. This dish is often flavored with either miso or soy sauce and is almost always topped with toppings such as dried seaweed, green onions and sliced pork. Ramen can be easily acquired at most Asian restaurants although of course it is also possible to make it at home. Beef Ramen is probably the most popular Ramen flavor out there (although chicken is also widely requested).
Marinated Anchovies?
Some people love anchovies, others greatly dislike them. Don’t be surprised if you normally fall into the latter category but lately, just can’t get enough of them! As most people are well aware, anchovies are small saltwater fish. They are usually sold in tins and are often added to pizzas, salads, pasta dishes and sometimes even sandwiches. Few people are aware that anchovies are great for one’s health! According to Organic Facts, eating anchovies can help you maintain a clear complexion. Anchovies might also improve your bone health and help with tissue and bone repair!
Ice Cream?
Ice cream is a frozen food that is usually made from dairy. It is often eaten as a snack or as a dessert and is very popular during the summer months. Ice cream can be served on its own or inside a cone. It comes in a number of flavors, including vanilla, chocolate, strawberry, banana and even chocolate chip cookie dough. As is the case with most foods, ice cream can be either bought in store or made at home (provided you have invested in an ice cream machine).
Bananas?
One of the most popular fruits in the world, bananas can be found in almost every kitchen across the globe. Perhaps the reason why bananas are so popular is because they are not only delicious but also rather cheap. Unlike certain fruit – such as pomegranates or passion fruit for example – bananas are also very easy to eat and will leave no mess. They are a great snack to throw into one’s back (although you do have to be careful that you don’t accidentally squeeze them).
Granny Smith Apples?
Granny Smith apples are a popular apple variety. They differ from other apples in that their skin is green and in that they are somewhat sour. Like most fruit, apples, and in particular Granny Smith apples, are full of health benefits. According to Good Housekeeping, Granny Smith apples not only help one feel full faster but also provide a barrier that protects our immune system. Chronic inflammation, which might very well lead to diabetes, can also be prevented by the regular consumption of Granny Smith apples!
Grilled Cheese Sandwiches?
Another comfort food, grilled cheese sandwiches are loved by many. Do grilled cheese sandwiches even need explaining? Pretty much everyone knows what they are but just in case, let us go into detail. A grilled cheese sandwich is basically a cheese sandwich that has been toasted. This results in the cheese turning all gooey and in the bread becoming crunchy. Grilled cheese sandwiches are for sale in most cafes around the world but are obviously super easy to make at home.
Chilies?
It is no secret that quite a few pregnant women crave spicy food. The only problem is – sometimes the spicy food that they go for is not as spicy as they want it to be. Some solve this problem by simply purchasing a packet of chilies and by eating them on their own. This might seem a little extreme to some, but then again, cravings are difficult to explain. And anyhow, chilies are actually great for one’s health. They contain vitamin C, vitamin B6, and vitamin K1 as well as copper and potassium (Health Line).
Cottage Cheese?
Cottage cheese is basically fresh curd cheese that has a very mild flavor. As far as cheese goes, it is very low in calories. Some people like to eat cottage cheese on its own whereas others prefer to add it to other dishes. Regardless of how one eats it, there is no denying that it is incredibly beneficial to one's health. Indeed, according to Health Line, cottage cheese contains vitamin A, vitamin B1, and vitamin B12 as well as magnesium, potassium and iron.
Coleslaw?
Once again, coleslaw is one of those foods that people either love or greatly dislike. And once again, it is not unusual to detest coleslaw and then suddenly find that you are craving it when pregnant. Coleslaw is basically a salad made from raw cabbage that has been shredded into fine pieces. These fine pieces of cabbage are almost always topped with a salad dressing, whether it is mayonnaise or vinegar. Coleslaw is usually served as a side dish to meat dishes.
Chocolate?
Chocolate is a delicious treat that is made from ground and roasted cacao seeds. One can usually choose between three different types of chocolate – white chocolate (the sweetest of them all), milk chocolate and dark chocolate (which can be very bitter). Dark chocolate is without doubt the healthiest option, especially if it contains high cocoa content. According to Health Line, dark chocolate is not only very nutritious but is also rich in copper, iron, fiber, and magnesium among other minerals.
Coffee?
Some people believe that pregnant women should not drink coffee. However, according to medical experts, a cup of coffee a day is not going to harm the pregnant woman or her baby. It is worth mentioning that people are divided when it comes to coffee in general. Some think that it is great – and that it comes with numerous health benefits – whereas others are against it and suggest that people switch to green tea instead (or better yet, herbal tea)!
Lasagna?
Lasagna is another comfort dish that most people love. It is a popular Italian dish that is made using layers of pasta, meat, vegetables, sauce (usually Bechamel sauce) and cheese (such as Parmesan or Grana Padano). Lasagna is usually cooked in the oven and does not necessarily have to contain meat. Indeed, there are plenty of recipes for vegetarian lasagnas out there, including spinach and pesto lasagna. Lasagna is quite a dense and heavy meal and is often served with a salad.
Baked Beans?
Baked beans consist of beans that have been either baked or stewed in a sauce. They are readily available in cans in grocery stores all over the world. If purchased in a can, these beans are usually heated up in a microwave or in a pot (although they can also be eaten cold). Of course, one can also make these beans from scratch. Some people eat these beans on their own, straight from the can. Others on the other hand like to pile them onto their toast.
Cheeseburger?
A cheeseburger is basically a hamburger that contains cheese. The exact ingredients that are added to a cheeseburger depend on where you get it. Most fast food restaurants offer cheeseburgers on their menu. That being said you can of course also make a cheeseburger at home (although it will require quite a lot of effort and time, unless you purchase ready-made ingredients). The cheese that is used in cheeseburgers is cheese that is easy to melt (for example, cheese such as cheddar cheese or mozzarella cheese).
Bacon?
Bacon is basically nothing more than salt-cured pork. It is sold in grocery stores all over the world and is incredibly popular. Bacon can be eaten on its own as a snack or it can be served as a side dish to other dishes. For example, in some countries around the world bacon is often served alongside eggs during breakfast. Bacon can also be added to other dishes. For example, it is not at all uncommon to find bacon in sandwiches
Oranges?
Oranges are one of the most popular fruits out there, and for good reason. They are relatively easy to eat, they contain many vitamins and they are inexpensive. And of course, they are also very delicious. Oranges are grown in warm regions around the world. According to Health Line, they contain plenty of antioxidants, vitamin C, fiber, potassium and folate (which is also known and vitamin B9). Oranges keep one’s heart healthy. They also prevent kidney stones as well as anemia.
Cheese?
We’ve already mentioned curd cheese but here we are referring to more common types of cheese, such as cheddar, gouda, gruyere, parmesan, grana padano, brie and the like. Most people are not indifferent to cheese and it is easy to see why. After all, there are so many types of cheese out there – for example, one can choose between soft cheese and hard cheese – that everyone is bound to find a cheese that they will love. Cheese can be eaten on its own but it can also be added to sandwiches, salads, and other dishes (such as egg or pasta dishes).
Brownies?
Brownies are a delicious chocolate dessert. They are made from ingredients such as flour, eggs, butter, sugar, and of course, chocolate (although in some cases, cocoa powder is used instead). Other ingredients, such as walnuts or chocolate chips are sometimes also added to the batter. Brownies are often topped with powdered sugar, frosting or cream cheese. They are very rich and as such a small slice will go a long way. There is nothing more indulgent than a brownie with a cup of coffee!
Hard Boiled Eggs?
Let’s be honest – most people are biased when it comes to eggs and prefer either hard boiled eggs or soft boiled eggs. Hard boiled eggs are eggs that have been boiled for around 10 minutes. They differ from soft boiled eggs in that the egg yolk and the egg white are completely firm and solid (whereas the egg yolk and the egg white in soft boiled eggs are partially raw and soft). Hard boiled eggs are usually eaten for breakfast but of course there are no rules against eating them for lunch or for dinner.
Fish and Chips?
Fish and chips is pretty self explanatory. It’s a dish that consists of fried battered fish and chips. Sometimes this dish is also accompanied by a salad and mushy peas. Fish and chips is incredibly popular in England but of course it is not an uncommon food in other parts of the world either. Most people get fish and chips when they are out and about. Indeed, very few people bother making fish and chips at home purely because as far as dishes go, fish and chips requires quite a lot of effort.
Grapefruit?
Grapefruit is an unusual fruit. It tastes both sweet and sour at the same time. Most people either love it or dislike it. While not as popular as oranges, grapefruits do come with great health benefits. For example, according to Health Line, grapefruits contain a seriously impressive amount of nutrients, vitamins and minerals. For example, grapefruits contain vitamin A and vitamin C as well as potassium, magnesium and fiber. Grapefruits are also beneficial for one’s immune system and can apparently even promote appetite control.
