“Is this normal?” If you’ve been asking this question lately, you’re not alone. Pregnancy can be confusing. One moment, you crave ice cream at 3 a.m.; the next, you can’t stand the smell of your favourite tea.
Many women feel uncertain as they enter pregnancy. According to a report from the UK Government, 19.7% of women in the UK took folic acid supplements before pregnancy in 2023-2024.
This guide offers answers from nutritionists. We provide professional insights without judgment, helping you feel confident, well-informed, and supported on your journey.
Top Nutrition Queries Answered for Expecting Mums
Here are some top nutrition queries answered for expecting mothers:
Why am I craving chocolate and crisps all the time?
Pregnancy can bring about different desires or cravings. These cravings can be specific or random – many expectant mothers in the UK report wanting chocolate, crisps, pickled onions, and sponges.
Hormonal changes and nutritional needs often influence these cravings. For example, craving chocolate might mean your body needs magnesium, while a strong desire for salty foods could indicate a need for more electrolytes or comfort.
It’s okay to indulge in cravings occasionally, but aim for a balance between enjoyment and healthy eating. Try dark chocolate, which is rich in antioxidants, or choose roasted chickpeas or kale crisps instead of salted chips when you want something crunchy. The key is to listen to your body without feeling guilty.
Is it normal to feel sick all day, not just in the morning?
Despite its name, morning sickness can happen at any time and may last all day for some people. Hormonal changes cause this nausea in early pregnancy, significantly an increase in human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). A study shows that nausea during pregnancy is very common throughout the day, not just in the mornings.
To help manage this, try making minor changes to your diet. Eating small amounts frequently, like dry crackers or plain rice, can help keep blood sugar steady and reduce nausea. Ginger tea, vitamin B6, and peppermint can also provide mild relief.
However, if your nausea gets worse and leads to dehydration or weight loss, it could be a sign of hyperemesis gravidarum, which needs medical help. Don’t hesitate to contact your doctor or midwife.
I’m exhausted – why am I so tired all the time?
Feeling tired during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester, is common. Your body is working hard to create a new human.
To increase your energy, eat foods rich in iron, such as lentils, lean meats, fortified cereals, and dark leafy vegetables. Low iron levels often cause fatigue in pregnancy. Eating complex carbohydrates, like oats and whole-grain bread, helps keep your energy steady.
Don’t forget to drink enough water. Being dehydrated can make you feel more tired. Keep a water bottle handy and drink throughout the day.
I can’t go to the toilet – what’s causing this constipation?
Pregnancy can cause constipation due to hormones, mainly progesterone, which slow down gut activity. In fact, around 40% of pregnant women in the UK face constipation. This shows that constipation is a common issue during pregnancy.
Eating more fibre can help. Foods like oats, berries, lentils, prunes, and chia seeds can keep things moving. Drink plenty of water and try light activities like walking or prenatal yoga to aid digestion.
If constipation continues, talk to a nutritionist about safe fibre options or see your GP for more help.
Why does that smell make me gag?
Many expecting mothers are surprised by strong food aversions. Foods they used to love, like eggs, chicken, or tea, can suddenly become unappealing. This reaction may help protect the mother and baby by avoiding harmful foods in early pregnancy.
Try plant-based proteins like tofu, lentils, or nut spreads if you dislike meat. If vegetables don’t appeal to you, smoothies can help you get nutrients.
Please work with your food preferences instead of against them. Your appetite usually returns during the second trimester so that this phase will pass.
I’ve been feeling dizzy lately — is that just pregnancy?
Dizziness is common during pregnancy, mainly in the second trimester. It can be caused by low blood pressure, hormonal changes, or blood sugar.
To manage dizziness, you must do the following:
- Eat small meals often to keep your blood sugar steady.
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated.
- Get up slowly from sitting or lying down to avoid drops in blood pressure.
If you are wondering if being dizzy is bad during pregnancy, the response depends on the rigour and frequency. Mild dizziness is usually not severe and can be managed easily. However, it’s essential to pay attention to how you feel.
Some dizziness is completely normal in pregnancy due to hormonal shifts, blood pressure changes, or low iron. We often support clients with hydration and dietary tweaks to ease this. However, if the dizziness is persistent, comes with vision issues, or affects your balance, it may be time to dig deeper. That is where a specialist like The Neuromuscular Clinic can help identify whether something like a vestibular condition or neuromuscular imbalance is at play.
If you have mild dizziness, making some lifestyle changes might help. However, if your dizziness is severe or continues for a long time, talk to a healthcare provider to rule out any underlying issues.
Conclusion
Pregnancy can bring many surprises, and most of them are normal. However, just because something is familiar doesn’t mean you must deal with it alone. With proper nutrition and expert help, you can reduce discomfort, feel more in control, and have a healthier experience.
If you’re unsure if your symptoms are related to nutrition or want to feel your best, seek advice that fits your needs.
Bringing new life into the world is challenging, but you can feel empowered with support, knowledge, and self-care.
