Ocassionally caving to cravings is fine. The worry isn't the sugar desserts contain, but the nutrients they don't. All carbohydrates convert to glucose before crossing the placenta to your baby. But a cup of whole wheat pasta also provides folic acid, iron, protein, and fiber-and a third fewer calories than a chocolate bar. Granted, pasta won't fix your craving, but how about chocolate pudding or a homemade trail mix? "Toss in some whole grain cereal, nuts, dried fruit, and a sprinkling of M&M's", i just suggests, and you've got a sweet snack that's nutritious, too.

Yes, some foods and beverages can be harmful to a developing fetus. Play it safe by nixing the following from your diet;

* Alcohol = It can seriously affect healthy fetal development.

* Raw or undercooked meat, poultry, seafood (such as sushi), vegetable sprouts, and eggs (like in Caesar dressing or tiramisu)-these foods may be contaminated with salmonella or other bacteria.

* Hot dog and luncheon meats- Only eat them if they are reheated to steaming hot, because of the threat of listeria bacteria.

* Unpasteurized milk, juice, apple cider, and soft cheeses (such as Brie, feta, and Camembert) - These may contain Lisberia, E. Coli, or other dangerous bacteria.

* Swordfish, shark, tilefish and king mackerel - Avoid These types of fish because of their high mercury levelsl; also limit canned albacore tuna to a total of 6 ounces per week.

* Herbal supplements and teas - These have not been proven safe during pregnancy.

* Caffeine - Limit yourself to one or two caffeine beverages daily.