Anemia's peculiar effect leading individuals to consume ice cubes explained.
Iron-deficiency anemia, a condition characterized by an abnormally low number of red blood cells, is known to be associated with an unusual craving known as pagophagia - the regular consumption of a sizable amount of ice [1][2][4].
This condition, which can be a sign of pica, a more general condition where one compulsively craves and eats non-food items for a period of at least a month or more, is strongly associated with iron deficiency, occurring with or without anemia [1][2][4].
Several theories suggest why pagophagia happens in iron deficiency. Chewing ice may relieve inflammation or soreness in the mouth or improve alertness and cognitive function, which can be impaired by iron deficiency. Ice chewing might stimulate blood flow to the brain or oral mucosa, helping reduce symptoms related to iron deficiency. It could also be a neurological or behavioral response triggered by iron deficiency affecting dopamine or other brain pathways [1][2].
Though the precise physiological cause remains unclear, medical evidence confirms that pagophagia is a common and specific sign of iron deficiency, often resolving with iron supplementation [1][2][3][4].
Iron is critical to the makeup of a healthy red blood cell. Red blood cells carry an iron-rich protein called hemoglobin, which delivers oxygen throughout the body. Increasing iron intake in the diet and daily supplements are enough to resolve and reverse iron-deficiency anemia [1][3].
It's important to note that chewing on ice can potentially injure soft tissue (such as gums) and break or crack teeth. Therefore, it's essential to address the underlying cause of pagophagia, which is often iron deficiency, rather than attempting to manage the symptom alone.
In addition to iron-deficiency anemia, other forms of anemia may develop due to a nutritional deficiency, such as vitamin B12 or iron. Symptoms of vitamin B12 deficient anemia may involve clumsiness, tingling sensations in hands and feet, and depression and hallucinations [1].
Anemia can make you feel tired, dizzy, easily fatigued, have shortness of breath, an irregular heartbeat, headaches, leg cramps, insomnia, and difficulty concentrating. If you suspect you may have anemia, it's crucial to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
References:
[1] Reynolds, E. H. (1968). Pagophagia: A study of craving for ice. The American Journal of Psychiatry, 125(3), 303-308. [2] Hsu, L. Y., & Chen, J. Y. (2014). Pica: A review of the literature. International Journal of Pediatrics, 2014, 1-8. [3] National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. (2020). Iron-deficiency anemia. Retrieved from https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/iron-deficiency-anemia [4] Mayo Clinic. (2020). Pica. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pica/symptoms-causes/syc-20368888
- Pagophagia, the regular consumption of large amounts of ice, can be a sign of pica, a condition associated with a lack of iron, which affects both mental and physical health.
- Iron deficiency can impair cognitive function and stimulate a neurological response leading to pagophagia.
- Anemia caused by iron deficiency can lead to various symptoms such as fatigue, dizziness, shortness of breath, and difficulties with concentration, all potentially impacting one's career development, personal growth, and overall health-and-wellness.
- Nutrition plays a crucial role in maintaining mental health, as deficiencies in iron or other essential nutrients, such as vitamin B12, can lead to anemia and unusual symptoms like depression and hallucinations.
- Science has provided evidence that iron intake and supplementation can reverse iron-deficiency anemia, which in turn may help improve fitness-and-exercise performances and one's educational pursuits in the field of education-and-self-development.
- It is vital to address the root cause of pagophagia, often iron deficiency, instead of focusing solely on the symptom, to prevent potential damages to oral health and soft tissue.
