Which food cravings mean you’re pregnant with a boy?

Which Food Cravings Mean You’re Pregnant with a Boy?

Many cultures have long believed that the types of foods you crave during pregnancy can reveal whether you’re carrying a boy or a girl. While sweet vs. salty cravings are entered deep in folklore, modern research has not found a reliable link. Here’s what the science and tradition say about “food cravings when pregnant with a boy,” explained in everyday language.

1. Understanding Pregnancy Cravings
   Pregnancy cravings are powerful urges to eat certain foods. According to Wolfson and Bleich (2015), up to 90% of pregnant people experience at least one strong craving. These cravings may be influenced by:

• Hormonal changes (e.g., altered taste and smell)
• Nutritional needs (e.g., more calcium or iron)
• Psychological factors (stress relief or habit)

However, cravings are highly individual. While some expectant parents report eating pickles and ice cream, others reach for hearty soups or plain toast.

2. The “Boy or Girl” Craving Myth
   Old wives’ tales suggest:

• Salty, savory, or meaty cravings = baby boy
• Sweet cravings (chocolate, ice cream) = baby girl

Common “boy-related” cravings include:

• Grill‐style meats (burgers, steak)
• Salty snacks (chips, pickles)
• Spicy foods (hot sauce, jalapeños)
• Umami‐rich dishes (soy sauce, meat broths)

But do these cravings really predict baby’s sex? Scientific studies, including the comprehensive review by Wolfson & Bleich, have found no consistent pattern linking specific cravings to fetal sex.

3. What Research Actually Says
   • Wolfson JA, & Bleich SN. (2015). Food cravings and aversions during pregnancy: This study examined cravings across hundreds of participants. The researchers concluded that while certain foods are more commonly craved, cravings did not reliably differ between those carrying boys vs. girls.
   • Smaller clinical studies have occasionally noted slight differences—one survey found a marginal uptick in salty‐food cravings among those carrying boys—but sample sizes were too small to be conclusive.
   • Overall, no medical guideline or obstetric organization endorses using cravings to predict your baby’s sex.

4. Why the Myth Persists
   • Simplicity and fun: Labeling simple patterns (sweet vs. salty) feels like an easy guessing game.
   • Confirmation bias: You remember the times cravings “got it right” and forget when they didn’t.
   • Storytelling: Family traditions and social media posts reinforce the idea that cravings are clues.

5. Common “Boy Cravings” and Possible Explanations
   Even without a proven link, you might wonder why you crave certain foods more strongly. Here are typical “boy‐craving” examples—and what they might really mean:

• Craving Salt or Pickles
– Possible cause: Increased blood volume and changes in sodium balance during pregnancy.
– Nutritional note: A small amount of salt can help maintain fluid balance, but too much may raise blood pressure.

• Craving Meats or Hearty Proteins
– Possible cause: Growing baby and placenta need more protein and iron.
– Nutritional note: Lean meats, beans, and legumes are healthier sources of protein and iron than processed meats.

• Craving Spicy Foods
– Possible cause: Pregnancy hormones can heighten taste sensitivity and reduce heartburn in some people.
– Nutritional note: If spicy foods trigger heartburn, try milder seasonings or pair with dairy.

• Craving Umami‐Rich Dishes (Broths, Soy Sauce)
– Possible cause: Body’s drive for savory flavors may hint at a need for more amino acids.
– Nutritional note: Low‐sodium broths and naturally fermented soy products provide umami without excess salt.

6. How to Respond to Food Cravings
   Regardless of whether you believe in gender‐craving myths, here are safe ways to manage cravings:

• Balance Your Plate
– Combine protein, healthy fats, and fiber (e.g., grilled chicken with quinoa and veggies).
– Satisfies hunger and keeps blood sugar steady.

• Moderate Indulgences
– If you crave chips, have a small portion with fruit slices.
– If you crave ice cream, switch to frozen yogurt or fruit sorbet.

• Focus on Nutrient Needs
– Talk to your provider about prenatal vitamins, iron, calcium, and DHA.
– A well‐rounded diet supports baby’s growth, regardless of sex.

• Stay Hydrated
– Sometimes thirst feels like food craving.
– Aim for 8–10 glasses of water, plus fluids from soups and smoothies.

7. Finding Out Your Baby’s Sex
   Rather than relying on cravings:
   • Ultrasound (around 18–22 weeks) is the standard method.
   • Non‐invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) can reveal sex as early as 10 weeks.
   • Always discuss testing options, timing, and accuracy with your obstetrician.

8. Beyond Cravings: Tracking Pregnancy Symptoms
   Whether you’re curious about baby’s sex or simply monitoring your health, you might consider a free, online symptom check for Pregnancy. This tool can help you:

• Understand typical pregnancy signs and when to seek care
• Track changes week by week
• Learn about common concerns such as swelling, fatigue, or nausea

Check it out here: symptom check for Pregnancy

9. When to Talk to Your Doctor
   While food cravings are usually harmless, certain symptoms require prompt medical attention:
   • Severe abdominal pain or cramping
   • Heavy vaginal bleeding or fluid leakage
   • Persistent vomiting or dehydration
   • High blood pressure symptoms (severe headache, vision changes)

Always speak to a doctor about anything that could be life‐threatening or serious. Your healthcare provider can address both your nutritional needs and any concerns about your baby’s development.

10. Bottom Line
    • There’s no scientifically proven link between specific food cravings and having a boy.
    • “Salty” or “meaty” cravings are fun mythology, but not a reliable gender predictor.
    • Focus on balanced nutrition and evidence‐based prenatal care.
    • Use ultrasound and genetic testing, not your snack cupboard, to learn your baby’s sex.
    • For any worrisome symptoms, please speak to a doctor promptly.

By understanding the difference between myth and medicine, you can enjoy your cravings with less anxiety—and more confidence that you’re doing what’s best for you and your baby.