Food cravings are sudden urges to eat a particular type of food. They are a real phenomenon and affect many women during pregnancy.  No one really knows why food cravings develop. It seems logical that cravings might be due to something lacking in the diet, or an increased need for certain vitamins and minerals. However, this may not necessarily be the case.  In addition to food cravings, many pregnant women also develop a sudden dislike or aversion for certain strong-tasting foods.  Food cravings and sudden food aversions may have something to do with the effects of pregnancy hormones, which can change the way some foods taste and smell. As long as you continue to eat a good variety of healthy foods, it is OK to give in to the occasional food craving.