A doctor has warned that a persistent urge to chew ice could be a sign of iron deficiency anaemia. Dr Kunal Sood, speaking to his 1.8 million Instagram followers, highlighted "ice craving" as a potential red flag for the condition, which is medically termed pagophagia and falls under the broader category of pica.
Experts at the Mayo Clinic explain that pica involves craving and consuming non-nutritive substances such as ice, clay, soil or paper. While the exact reason for the link between ice craving and iron deficiency remains unclear, it is a recognised association. Other symptoms of iron deficiency include pale skin, fatigue, and restless legs.
Iron is essential for producing red blood cells that transport oxygen around the body. Left untreated, iron deficiency anaemia can lead to more serious health issues, according to the NHS. The health service advises that a varied diet should provide sufficient iron, but supplements may be necessary in some cases.
Dietary sources of iron include red meat, dark leafy greens, legumes, and fortified cereals. The NHS recommends that adults should not exceed 17mg of iron per day from supplements unless advised by a GP. Dr Sood urged anyone experiencing symptoms to consult their doctor.
