It’s no secret that cravings are a common symptom for women during pregnancy. This post lists common food cravings and what they can mean in pregnancy. Having non-food cravings in pregnancy is more common than most people think but because of the health concerns associated with these types of cravings it is worth discussing them with your healthcare provider.

As many of you are well aware nausea is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the food related trials and tribulations of pregnancy. Many women experience strong food aversions and cravings. The reasons for this are as varied as the cravings themselves. 

Many researchers chalk cravings up to the hormonal changes you are experiencing. Some believe it is a deep-seeded biological influence from the days of old that helped women to steer clear of foods that could easily be contaminated or dangerous for the developing fetus. Other researchers are convinced that cravings are caused by metabolic imbalances and nutrient deficiencies created by the demands of pregnancy on the body (see this food cravings chart). 

As a naturopathic physician, I use herbs as medicine in a variety of ways, for example: to boost the immune system, ease an upset stomach, reduce stress, and to provide essential nutrients. Teas have been consumed safely in many cultures for thousands of years; however, whenever possible avoid using herbs in this way during your first trimester unless prescribed by your healthcare provider. If you are trying a tea for the first time or it is in your first trimester, start by using a small amount of the herb (1 tsp or less per cup of hot water) or by only steeping a tea bag for 10 minutes or less. It is important to make sure you are purchasing herbs and teas from trusted reliable sources to avoid adulteration and contamination. Because you are unique, it is hard to predict if an adverse reaction to a herb will occur, so as always please consult your healthcare provider when considering your favourite tea while pregnant. If you are not sure, it is probably safest to just avoid it. 

Below are the top 10 teas I typically recommend to my pregnant patients – here’s the same information in a chart if you prefer the format – these teas are generally considered safe during pregnancy. 

I rarely hear the words labour and relaxation in the same sentence. So, when Dr. Beverly Huang ND suggested this Early Labour Relaxation Tea recipe to assist women during labour I was intrigued.