A test of four evolutionary hypotheses of pregnancy food cravings: evidence for the social bargaining model.

ABSTRACT: The onset of cravings for items not typically desired is often considered a hallmark of pregnancy. Given the ubiquity of cravings, this phenomenon remains surprisingly understudied. The current study tested four hypotheses of pregnancy food cravings: behavioural immune system, nutrient seeking, resource scarcity and social bargaining. The research took place in Tamil Nadu, South India, with pregnant women residing in rural villages (N = 94). Methods included structured interviews and anthropometric measures. Findings revealed that unripe mango and unripe tamarind were the two most frequently mentioned food cravings among this population, but were not sufficiently supported by the a priori models. Results confirmed that the social bargaining model was the best explanation for

SUBMITTER: Placek C 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5666241 | biostudies-literature | 2017 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature