Resisting a pregnancy craving can be a really hard thing to do. What you have to realize is that it is your body's way of telling you that it is yearning for a certain food. As a result of this, the chances of you gaining weight during your pregnancy is more! However, there are a lot of alternatives that you can substitute in place of that junk you feel like indulging in.
Chocolate
Chocolate has to be the ultimate food worth craving for, right? Well, we do not deny that! But chocolates can be a major contributing factor to weight gain during pregnancy. So what should one do? Try substituting chocolate by having things like dry fruits or nuts as these happen to be nutrient dense, full of Vitamin A and C, and in minerals like magnesium and potassium. These will help you calm your sweet cravings and also provide you with energy. Try to opt for dry fruits like dates or figs since these happen to be rich in Iron, which is a crucial nutrient your body is in need of during pregnancy. The fiber in these dry fruits also helps constipation. Another good alternative in terms of fruits would be sweet and flavoursome ones like berries and kiwis, that are low in calories and yet help you satisfy your sweet tooth. If nothing works, then your best bet would be to eat dark chocolate instead.
Chips
Try to steer clear of fried goodies like fried chips et al. Anything fried is not a good idea since it will only lead you to gain more weight than you want. Craving salty food too is a part of the pregnancy cravings that you might experience during this time. Opt for baked chips instead of fried ones. Alternatively, you can also go for plain popcorn or popcorn flavoured with paprika. These happen to be low in calorie whilst being high in fiber! This too will easily and quite satisfactorily cease your salty food craving to a great extent.
Aerated Drinks
Whether you are expecting or not, it goes without saying that aerated drinks are anything but healthy for any and every one of us. So ditch that can of coke that you have lying around and grab a healthier alternative for yourself. Water is your best friend, and you can always try and mix water with a fruit juice of your choice, simply squeeze some lemon into the water. If, however, you want to experience the feeling of having a "fizzy drink" minus the sugar, then do the same with some soda water! That works perfectly too! A few other alternatives: Ice cream: Alternative – Frozen Yoghurt- Coffee: Alternative – Decaf coffee/Herbal Teas
- Takeout/Food Delivery: Alternative – Home-cooking
Cravings might not be something you would be able to keep at bay, but it is definitely something that you do have control over. So try indulging in these healthy alternatives instead of their unhealthy counterparts, and feel better and healthier each passing day!
