Cravings, decoded

Cravings mostly reflect shifting hormones, not specific nutrient deficiencies. That said, patterns emerge: salty cravings often mean you need more electrolytes or fluid; sweet cravings can reflect blood-sugar dips or fatigue. Honor cravings within reason. A pickle at 3am does no harm; a nightly pint of ice cream might tip you into gestational diabetes territory. Use the 80/20 rule: 80% mostly nutritious, 20% whatever your body is asking for. Non-food cravings — ice, chalk, dirt, laundry starch — are called pica and warrant a call to your provider. They often signal iron or zinc deficiency and are worth checking with bloodwork.