Hello Simran,
Thanks for the query.
This unusual craving for unnatural foods is called
pica. I must assure you that despite all the myths, there is no connection between pica and
pregnancy.
You may be low in calcium and iron and such people are known to have this problem. So it is better to adjust your diet according to your favorite foods and also balance it in terms of nutrients like vegetables, fruits and
proteins like eggs and meats to meet your and the babies needs.
You must overcome this habit as it is not good for the baby. The baby may have problems of growth and the lead is extremely harmful for the brain.
So please stop it. If you are unable to stop it, get help from a behavioral therapist or a
psychiatrist who may help you with
counselling.
Most of the time, this pica disappears after using calcium and iron tablets . So get them prescribed by your gynecologist.
Hope this satisfies your query.
Thanks for using HCM.
Feel free to ask any more questions that you may have.
Dr Madhuri Bagde
Consultant Obstetrician and Gynecologist