Have you had any non-food craving during your pregnancy? Is it normal to want to eat chalk or coal?

I've read about this condition. It is called Pica. Pica is the term used to describe the intense craving for – and eating of – non-food items. Pica is the Latin word for magpie and I suppose because magpies are known to eat pretty much anything. It is a worldwide phenomenon that is pretty common during pregnancy. No one knows what causes these unusual cravings, but a combination of biochemical, psychological, and cultural factors may be at work. In some studies, pica has been linked to iron deficiency ­– even though none of the craved items contain a significant amount of iron. There is some research suggesting that iron-deficiency anemia is associated with these strange cravings. http://www.babycenter.com/404_what-causes-pica-craving-and-consuming-non-food-items-during_1186643.bc