5 Effective Tips To Deal With Loss of Appetite During Pregnancy

Pregnancy often comes with food cravings and an increased appetite. However, for so many expecting mothers, it may be the opposite. Loss of appetite during pregnancy is a common concern, particularly during the first and third trimesters. 

The reason is nausea, hormonal fluctuations, increased sensitivity to smells, and stress that makes food unappealing. The truth, however, is adequate nutrition is essential when it comes to ensuring proper baby development and the mother’s health.

In fact, according to a study, pregnant women require an additional 300-500 calories per day in the second and third trimesters. So what exactly do you need to do if you simply don’t feel like eating?

Read this article to explore five effective tips to deal with loss of appetite during pregnancy.

Did you know that according to a study, up to 70 percent of pregnant women experience morning sickness? Many of them feel overwhelmed right at the idea of food. The best approach is to replace the eat three large meals concept with breaking them into five or six smaller meals throughout the day.

This is because smaller meals are much easier on the digestive system while also helping maintain steady blood sugar levels and preventing nausea from worsening. 

Drinking enough water is essential during pregnancy. However, sometimes, excessive fluid intake before meals can make you feel so full that it may ultimately reduce your appetite. On the other hand, dehydration can lead to nausea and poor appetite.

It is recommended for pregnant women to consume at least 10 cups of fluids per day to stay hydrated. You can go for coconut water, homemade fruit juices, herbal teas, or naturally flavored water.

If your appetite is low, the best approach is to maximize nutrition in every bite. There’s no better way than to incorporate calorie-dense, nutrient-rich sources in your diet.

Some of the best food sources include:

Yes, pregnancy hormones can significantly change the way food tastes and smells. This is the reason some women find that cold foods such as fruit or yogurt are better than hot meals. The reason? They have comparably weaker odors.

Moreover, trying different textures can also help. So, if crunchy foods seem unappealing, you can try softer food choices, including mashed potatoes, hummus, and porridge. On the other hand, if soft foods feel too bland, try adding roasted chickpeas or whole-grain crackers to your diet.

The fact is—when your appetite is low, it is common to miss out on essential vitamins and minerals. This is where the role of prenatal vitamins comes in. So if you too are struggling to eat enough, prenatal vitamins can help fill that gap.

According to the CDC, iron, folic acid, calcium, and vitamin D are essential during pregnancy, the deficiency of which can lead to severe complications such as low birth weight and neural tube defects.

Loss of appetite during pregnancy is common. However, with some dietary changes, you can easily meet your nutritional needs. From eating smaller meals to staying hydrated, consuming nutrient-dense foods, and considering prenatal supplements, eating more is not so overwhelming. However, if appetite issues persist, always consult your doctor.