Craving meat, eggs, or other proteins
Many women crave meat, especially red meat, when they’re pregnant. This craving is often an indication your body needs more protein and iron (red meat has high levels of both). Craving eggs while pregnant is also a common sign that your body needs more protein. Iron and protein are needed for the formation of red blood cells which is critical while pregnant. During pregnancy, your blood volume increases by almost 50%, so it’s important to support this big change with the right levels of iron and protein.
Low iron levels can lead to anemia, with symptoms like breathlessness, fatigue, pale skin and feeling faint, among others. You definitely want to make sure your health care provider knows if you’re experiencing any of these symptoms.
Other healthy sources of protein during pregnancy include beans, peas, nuts and soy products. Seafood that is low in mercury, like salmon, canned tuna and white fish like tilapia and trout are also good sources of protein when eaten in moderation. When the cravings start, make sure to avoid all raw and undercooked meat, poultry, eggs, fish and shellfish. If you like an occasional hot dog or luncheon meat, make sure they’re steaming hot or avoid them completely. Foodborne illnesses like listeria are rare but you don’t want to risk food poisoning when you’re pregnant.