The popular myth of a pregnant woman longing for bizarre combinations of foods, such as ice cream and pickled onions, due to a physiological need is just a myth. There is no evidence to suggest that food cravings are sign of any nutritional deficiency.
Nevertheless, food cravings are common during pregnancy, and according to one Canadian researcher, fruit and fruit juices, chocolate and dairy products top the list of foods most often carved, especially after the first three months. More likely still are aversions to specific foods or drinks, particularly meat, fatty or spicy foods, tea, coffee and alcohol.
Benefits of Ice Cream
- Most varieties contain vitamins A, riboflavin and B12
- Contains calcium
Drawbacks
- High sugar content
- Most brands are high in fat
Benefits of Pickles
- Most type of pickled fruits and vegetables retain minerals
Drawbacks
- Often high in salt
- Pickled fish and meat may be linked with a higher risk of certain cancer
- Some types may trigger allergies