For many ladies, this Mother’s Day will be there first, even if their little one is resting within the womb. You may want to show her love by getting her a mani/pedi or some type of pregnancy massage. Or you can be a great friend and loved one and keep her cravings in check with healthier alternatives then some of these:

 

Ice, Laundry Detergent and Dirt

Cravings for odd non-foods like ice, laundry detergent, dirt, and chalk have been tied to a condition called pica. This could mean you’re a little anemic. Ask your doctor for a blood test, and if you are, you can boost your iron the natural way by adding more iron-rich foods to your diet. Great alternative is Beef and Pumpkin Seeds.

Chocolate

Chocolate cravings could mean your body wants magnesium. If you’re good at moderating around sweets, you could limit yourself to a square or two of dark chocolate. But if you can’t just have one, you may want to go for a handful (or 3) of almonds. Also brown rice and beans are great.

 

Flavored Chip Dust

Have you been licking the flavor dust off of Doritos and throwing the chips away? Well, your blood volume increases during pregnancy, which may cause you to crave more sodium. Before you start your new salt-heavy regime, though, check in with your doctor. After that, try sweet potato fries instead. Sprinkle with some chili powder and salt and it’s yum-yum time.

Pickles

It’s actually pretty common for pregnant women to crave tart and sour flavors, especially later into their pregnancies. But if you want to cut down on your sodium, you may want to think beyond the grocery store stuff. Cravings for sour foods may actually mean you need more variety in your diet. Which is great for any pregnancy! To boost variety, try some Kimchee (Korean fermented cabbage and other veggies)

Soft-Serve Ice Cream Cones

You could be craving calcium. Or you could be craving a cool, creamy sweet dessert, duh. But give these other calcium foods a try, like Greek Yogurt. With a little bit of honey and fruit, it’ll cut down the calories and give you the sweetness you need.

Leafy Greens

Okay, this has to be the weirdest craving of all, but many women have it. Everything from bok choy to bitter arugula, leafy greens are wanted by many an expecting mother. Cool thing is, there is no need for an alternative!