Increased Hunger During Pregnancy at 7 Months is Normal
Yes, increased hunger is a completely normal physiological response during the third trimester of pregnancy, driven by increased energy requirements for fetal growth, maternal tissue expansion, and preparation for lactation. 1
Why Hunger Increases in Late Pregnancy
Energy requirements increase by approximately 300 kcal/day during the second and third trimesters to support:
- Maternal blood volume expansion 1
- Growth of breast, uterus, and adipose tissue 1
- Placental growth 1
- Fetal growth and amniotic fluid production 1
The physiological basis for increased hunger at 7 months includes:
- Progressive insulin resistance that peaks in the third trimester, often doubling daily insulin requirements, which affects glucose metabolism and hunger signaling 2
- Hormonal changes including elevated progesterone, which slows gastric emptying and can paradoxically increase appetite 1
- Increased metabolic demands as the fetus undergoes rapid growth in the final trimester 1
Normal Eating Pattern Changes
Research demonstrates that pregnancy fundamentally alters eating behavior:
- Pregnant women naturally eat more and show lower levels of dietary restraint compared to non-pregnant women 3
- Nearly half of pregnant women report eating more than before pregnancy 3
- This represents a normal physiological adaptation, not a pathological change 3
Recommended Nutritional Approach
Consume regular, balanced meals and snacks throughout the day rather than restricting food intake:
- Follow the Dietary Reference Intake of minimum 175g carbohydrates, 71g protein, and 28g fiber daily 2
- An evening snack is usually necessary to prevent overnight hypoglycemia and fasting ketosis 1, 2
- Emphasize nutrient-dense foods including fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains, and healthy fats 2
Important caveat: Withholding food or forcing a child or pregnant woman to eat without appetite to control blood glucose should be discouraged 1. The key is responding to genuine hunger with healthy food choices.
When to Be Concerned
While increased hunger is normal, certain patterns warrant evaluation:
- Excessive, uncontrollable hunger accompanied by excessive weight gain (beyond recommended ranges of 25-35 lbs for normal weight women) 2
- Hunger accompanied by symptoms of hyperglycemia (excessive thirst, frequent urination, fatigue) that might indicate gestational diabetes 1
- Inability to feel satisfied despite adequate caloric intake, which could suggest underlying metabolic issues 2
Monitor appropriate weight gain based on pre-pregnancy BMI: for normal weight women, total gain should be 25-35 lbs; for overweight women, 15-25 lbs; for obese women, 10-20 lbs 2.
Practical Management
Eat small, frequent meals throughout the day to maintain stable blood glucose and satisfy hunger:
- This eating pattern helps match insulin production and prevents both hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia 2
- Include protein and healthy fats with each meal to promote satiety 1
- Avoid hypocaloric diets below 1,200 calories per day as they result in ketonemia and ketonuria, which can be harmful during pregnancy 4
The increased hunger you're experiencing at 7 months is your body's way of ensuring adequate nutrition for your growing baby and preparing for delivery and lactation—trust this signal while making healthy food choices.