Got a question? Our expert is here to help.
Got a question? Our expert is here to help.
Q: Why do I get extreme hunger pangs at odd hours, such as midnight or soon after I’ve eaten?
A:
You can feel extra hungry in any stage of pregnancy. The first trimester is sometimes marked by nausea, and, at other times, the need to eat frequently. From the second trimester, your developing foetus requires extra calories, hence prompting the need to eat more.
During the first trimester and early to mid-second trimester, you don’t need the extra calories. It is only in the last three months of your pregnancy that you will need an extra 200 calories daily to cope with Baby’s increasing growth and provide adequate nutrition.
It is difficult to stick to three main meals a day during pregnancy as hunger pangs can hit anytime, so add a healthy snack in between. Otherwise, it’s easy to overeat during your main meals, simply because you will feel famished by then.
Consider wholemeal sandwiches, beans or nuts. Yoghurt or oats bars are also healthy options.
If midnight pangs hit you and it is hard to go back to sleep, get up and have some toast, cereal, crackers or milk.
Q: I’m always sweaty and flushed, even in an air-conditioned room. What’s happening to me?
A:
It is normal to feel hot during pregnancy, even in the first trimester. This is due to hormonal changes, as well as the increased blood volume in your body during pregnancy, resulting in the slight dilation of the blood vessels in your body and skin.
In addition, your metabolic rate increases, which exacerbates the feeling of warmth. It is also common and normal to perspire more.
It’s safe to use fans or be in an air-conditioned environment. Having more frequent showers may help, as well.
Don’t forget to drink lots of water to stay hydrated – having cold fluids or cold food will help you feel cool. There is no scientific evidence to suggest that consuming these can be harmful to you or your baby during pregnancy.
