Pregnant and suddenly a different taste? This is why

Are you suddenly crazy about chocolate pickles, or can't stand that one smell you used to love? During pregnancy, your sense of taste and smell changes due to hormones. It can sometimes feel like your body decides for itself what you like and don't like. Fortunately, this is completely normal and temporary.

Why does your taste change during pregnancy?

During pregnancy, your hormones are working at full speed to support your baby's growth. This directly affects your sense of taste and smell.

A few major reasons:

• Hormones such as HCG and estrogen make certain foods more attractive or more intolerable.

• Your sense of smell becomes sharper, making odors more powerful and affecting your appetite.

• Your taste buds are more sensitive, which can make flavors seem more intense or flatter.

• Nausea and heartburn affect your appetite; fatty and spicy foods may suddenly become less palatable.

Common taste changes and cravings

Every woman experiences this differently, but the most common cravings and aversions are:

• Cravings for sour or salty snacks, such as pickles, lemon, or chips.

• Unexpected combinations, such as peanut butter with banana or strawberries with cheese.

• Aversion to coffee, meat, or strong spices, which were previously favorites.

• Increased need for carbohydrates, such as bread, pasta or potatoes.

What to do about nausea and heartburn?

Taste changes can sometimes be uncomfortable, especially with nausea or heartburn. These tips may help:

• Eat small, frequent meals to keep your blood sugar levels stable.

• Avoid fatty, spicy and acidic foods if you notice that these aggravate your symptoms.

• Use ginger or mint as natural support for nausea.

• Drink plenty of water, but preferably not immediately after eating to avoid heartburn.

• Listen to your body and give in to cravings within healthy limits.

Find balance in change with Bach Flowers

Taste changes and appetite fluctuations can sometimes be confusing. Honeysuckle is a Bach Flower remedy that helps you let go of the way things were and supports you in coping with change. It's ideal if you're longing for your old eating habits but also want to go with the flow of your pregnancy.

Discover the Bach Flower range at TS Health and choose the blossom that suits you. Give yourself more balance and peace during this special time.