Day 57 of 280, first trimester
You are 8 weeks and 1 day
Not every pregnant woman has cravings, but many find their food preferences change.
223 days until your due date
In pregnancy, your body seems to know instinctively what you want to eat. Experts aren't sure how, but it seems to have natural protective mechanisms: it may turn you off foods that aren't good for the baby, or make you crave foods that supply nutrients you're short of.
Suddenly you may not be able to stand foods and drinks you've always loved, while craving things you never liked or strange combinations of foods.
Aversions and cravings are often linked to nausea. It's common to be put off fatty foods, since the smell alone can make you feel sick, and you may go off the taste or smell of coffee, tea, cigarettes, and alcohol.
Craving strong-tasting foods such as pickles is common, possibly because your taste buds change in pregnancy. "Pica" is an unhealthy craving for strange non-food items.
Try to eat healthily and avoid the few foods you're advised not to eat in pregnancy. Otherwise, eat whatever combinations you like, and don't worry about funny looks in the sandwich shop!
Ask a Nutritionist
Should I stop adding salt to my food?
There's no need to cut down on salt, but don't go over the recommended 0.2 oz (6 g) a day. In pregnancy, your blood and other body fluids expand by almost 50 percent, which needs extra water and salt.
Most salt comes from processed foods, not from the salt shaker or cooking. To manage your intake, cook whole foods yourself and add salt to taste.
Focus on
Dads: Satisfy her cravings
If it's the mom-to-be's job to host the baby for nine months, it's definitely the dad-to-be's job to make sure she gets what she needs. Be warned: cravings tend to strike just after the local store has closed, or when you're relaxing in the evening. Forget pickles and ice cream; be ready for a late dash to the pizza place, or a trek to a 24-hour supermarket for organic sour-cream potato chips, beets, or a chocolate doughnut.
You can also help by preparing meals and snacks sometimes. If she's given healthy food lovingly made by you, she may be less likely to reach for unhealthy cravings.
Explainer
Ice cream cravings
If an ice cream craving strikes, try having one spoonful rather than the whole tub, and pair it with fresh fruit for a healthier combination.
Appointments and key dates around now
- Booking appointmentUsually between 8 and 12 weeks
Read the full 8 weeks pregnant guide
This is general information based on NHS guidance, not medical advice, and every pregnancy is different. Talk to your midwife or GP about anything that worries you. If your baby's movements slow down or change, or you have bleeding, severe pain or leaking fluid, call your maternity unit straight away. In an emergency, call 999.