When you are pregnant, it is so easy to get cravings. And while some people find them annoying and even a little embarrassing, they can also be your best friend!

Everyone has their own “thing” that helps them deal with the intense food desires during pregnancy.  It could be chocolate or pickles or ice cream- but we all have something that will satisfy our craving at any given time of day.  But what happens when you don’t have your favorite go-to item around? That’s where this list comes in handy! Here are essential things you should always keep on hand to help with those pesky pregnancy cravings:

Candy

Candy might not be the healthiest option on this list, but sometimes you just need something sweet! And when that happens, it’s best to have a few pieces of your favorite candy on hand to help tide you over. If you are looking for a healthier option, try dark chocolate-covered almonds or raisins. These options will satisfy your sweet tooth while giving you some added nutrients. If you are wanting something a little more indulgent, go for your favorite chocolate or caramel candy. You can now even visit your favorite candy shop online and have your sweet treats delivered to your door, so you can satisfy your cravings without even leaving the house. Just remember to enjoy these in moderation, as they are might be high in sugar and calories.

Crackers and Cheese

This craving combination is classic for a reason- it’s delicious! And it can be a great way to satisfy your hunger while getting some important nutrients like calcium and protein. If you are wanting something a little heartier, try wholegrain crackers with sharp cheddar cheese. The strong flavor of the cheese will help to satisfy your craving, and the whole-grain crackers will give you some extra fiber. For a lighter option, try crackers with goat cheese or a light cheese like mozzarella. If you are avoiding dairy, many types of vegan cheese would work well in this snack. The best option is to find crackers that you love and then experiment with different cheeses until you find a combination that you can’t resist.

Chocolate

This one is a given. Chocolate cravings are very common during pregnancy, and can strike at any time! Having a few bars or pieces of chocolate around will help you satisfy your craving quickly and easily. The best part about chocolate is that it comes in so many different forms- there’s bound to be a type that you love. During pregnancy, dark chocolate is a great option because it contains antioxidants that can be beneficial for you and your baby. The next time you are at the store, pick up a few different kinds of chocolate to have on hand for when those cravings hit. Just ensure that you don’t eat too much, as it can lead to weight gain.

Fruit

Fruit is a great option for when you are wanting something sweet but don’t want the sugar high that comes along with chocolate. It’s also a healthier option overall. Fresh fruit is always the best choice, but if you find yourself craving fruit at odd hours or in places where fresh fruit isn’t available, opt for dried fruit or 100% fruit juice instead. Dried fruit is a great source of vitamins and minerals, and can help satisfy your sweet tooth. However, beware of the higher sugar content in some types of dried fruits- like raisins, apricots, and dates. 100% fruit juices are another fantastic option when you are on the go and need a quick fix. Just be sure to check the label before you buy- you want to make sure that there is no added sugar.

Yogurt

Yogurt is a great source of protein and calcium, both of which are important for pregnant women. It can also help to tame your sweet tooth while satisfying your hunger. Choose plain yogurt and add your fruit or honey for sweetness- this way you can control the amount of sugar you’re consuming. Greek yogurt is a great option because it is higher in protein than regular yogurt. If you are lactose intolerant, there are many types of lactose-free yogurts on the market that would work well for you. And if you are vegan, there are plenty of dairy-free yogurt options available as well.

Popcorn

Popcorn is a great option when you are wanting something savory but don’t want the calories that come along with chips or pretzels. It’s also a good source of fiber, which can help keep you regular during pregnancy. To make your popcorn more satisfying, try topping it with cheese or nutritional yeast. Nutritional yeast is a great vegan alternative to Parmesan cheese and will give your popcorn a cheesy flavor without the dairy. You can also experiment with different spices and flavorings to find a combination that you love. Just be sure to avoid any buttery toppings, as they can add a lot of extra calories and fat.

Pregnancy cravings can be tough to deal with, but if you have some of these snacks on hand, you’ll be able to get through them with ease. Be sure to stock up on your favorites so that you’re always prepared when a craving hits. And remember- moderation is key! Don’t go overboard with sugary or fatty foods, as they can lead to weight gain. Instead, focus on satisfying your cravings with nutrient-rich snacks that will also benefit your health.