Pickles and ice cream? Peanut butter on bacon? Chewing on ice cubes or craving hot sauce on everything?
Welcome to the wonderfully strange world of weird pregnancy cravings—where food rules go out the window and your body takes the wheel.
For some women, pregnancy cravings are mild. For others, they’re oddly specific, totally random, and just plain weird. But here’s the thing: as strange as they seem, they’re often perfectly normal.
In this post, we’re digging into why weird pregnancy cravings happen, the most unusual (and hilarious) cravings real moms have reported, what they might mean, and when it’s time to call your doctor.
What Are Pregnancy Cravings?
Pregnancy cravings are sudden, intense urges to eat specific foods—sometimes even non-foods (more on that later). They often appear in the first trimester, peak in the second trimester, and may fade by the third.
Some cravings are sweet. Some are salty. And others? Let’s just say your pre-pregnancy self might raise an eyebrow.
Why Do Weird Pregnancy Cravings Happen?
There’s no one-size-fits-all explanation, but here are a few of the most common theories:
1. Hormones Are Running the Show
Pregnancy triggers major hormonal changes—especially in estrogen and progesterone—that can affect your sense of smell, taste, and hunger cues.
2. Your Body Needs Something
Some experts believe cravings may be your body’s way of signaling a nutrient need. For example, craving red meat could indicate low iron.
3. Nausea and Aversions
Sometimes, cravings are about comfort and survival. If nothing else sounds good but pickles or ice cream, that’s what you’ll eat.
4. Heightened Senses
Your senses are sharper during pregnancy. That might explain why plain spaghetti suddenly needs five shakes of hot sauce—or why you want to eat lemons whole.
Top 10 Weird Pregnancy Cravings (Reported by Real Moms)
These are real cravings moms have shared in surveys, online communities, and pregnancy forums—and yes, they’re all totally true.
1. Pickles Dipped in Peanut Butter
Tangy, salty, and creamy all in one bite? Some moms swear by this odd combo.
2. Chewing on Ice Cubes
Not just satisfying—this one might actually signal iron deficiency, also known as pica (more on that below).
3. Toothpaste and Soap
Thankfully, most don’t eat it, but the scent or foaminess is strangely appealing to some pregnant women.
4. Raw Onion Sandwiches
Yes, just raw onions between bread. If you’re into strong flavors, this one might hit the spot.
5. Chalk or Clay
This craving is part of pica, where you crave non-food items. It can be linked to mineral deficiencies and should be discussed with your doctor.
6. Vinegar Shots
Some women crave vinegar so intensely they sip it straight or drizzle it on everything—even fruit.
7. Spicy Hot Cheetos with Yogurt
A crunchy, spicy, and creamy combo that many moms-to-be can’t stop eating.
8. Frozen Veggies (Straight from the Bag)
Some moms skip cooking entirely and snack on frozen peas or corn like it’s candy.
9. Mustard on Everything
From fries and toast to apples and eggs—mustard becomes the go-to condiment.
10. Crumbling Ice Cream into Meat Dishes
One mom shared that she loved mixing ice cream with ground beef. Unusual? Yes. But pregnancy cravings make their own rules.
Cravings and Gender Myths: Do They Mean Anything?
There’s no scientific evidence behind it, but old wives’ tales say:
- Sweet cravings = girl
- Salty or sour cravings = boy
While it’s fun to guess, your cravings are more likely to be influenced by your hormones, culture, personal preferences, and possibly even nutrient levels.
When Are Pregnancy Cravings a Concern?
Most cravings—even weird ones—are harmless. But there are a few red flags to keep in mind:
1. Pica (Craving Non-Food Items)
If you’re craving things like dirt, chalk, soap, or paper, this could be a sign of iron or mineral deficiency. Always tell your doctor—it’s common and treatable.
2. Cravings That Disrupt Nutrition
If you’re only eating sugar or carbs and avoiding all protein or vegetables, your body (and baby) might be missing key nutrients.
3. Overeating or Compulsive Eating
If cravings lead to bingeing or emotional eating that feels hard to control, it’s important to reach out for support.
How to Handle Weird Pregnancy Cravings
You don’t need to fight every craving—but balance is key. Here’s how to manage the weird ones:
- Try healthier versions of what you crave (e.g., fruit if you want candy).
- Pair cravings with protein to stay full and avoid sugar crashes.
- Drink more water, especially if you’re craving salty or crunchy snacks.
- Check with your OB if a craving seems extreme or non-food-related.
- Listen to your body, but use common sense (no soap eating, please!).
Can Cravings Predict a Nutrient Deficiency?
Sometimes, yes.
Here are some clues:
- Craving ice or non-foods = possible iron deficiency
- Craving red meat = could be protein or B12
- Salt or sour = maybe low sodium or nausea regulation
- Dairy = possibly calcium or fat need
Your OB or midwife can run basic bloodwork if you suspect something deeper is going on.
Final Thoughts on Weird Pregnancy Cravings
Cravings are one of the wildest parts of pregnancy. One minute you’re crying over a TV commercial, and the next, you’re dipping pickles in whipped cream like it’s a five-star dessert.
The important thing to remember? You’re not alone—and most cravings are totally normal.
As long as you’re eating a balanced diet and not indulging in unsafe non-food items, there’s no harm in giving in to the occasional weird combo. Embrace the ride, take photos of your wildest pairings (you’ll laugh later!), and remember—it’s all part of the amazing journey your body is going through.
