Cravings, pica, bingeing, binge eating and cribbing are all terms used to describe urges to eat certain foods.
These appetites are usually caused by a deficiency of one or more minerals. Deficiencies of iron or magnesium are the most common causes of pica.
The most widely recognized of these are the cravings in pregnancy. The needs of her body and the fetus spur the expectant mother's powerful urges to consume large amounts or unusual (for her) foods.
Another widely recognized food passion is the craving for chocolate. This craving is caused by a deficiency of magnesium (cocoa has the highest specific magnesium content of all foods)!
Cravings for carbohydrates or sweets are most often a craving for magnesium.
Cravings for salt or salty foods signify a deficiency of sodium or magnesium.