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A member asked:
Why do i crave. to eat dirt. is my iron low?
3 doctors weighed in across 2 answers
Pica: Pica is characterized by an appetite for substances largely non-nutritive, such as clay, chalk, dirt, or sand. Iron deficiency is one of the causes of pica. Possible.
Answered 11/20/2014
4.9k views
PICA: Pica is a pattern of eating non-food materials, such as dirt. It is seen more in young children than adults. Between 10 & 32% of children ages 1 - 6 have these behaviors. It can also occur during pregnancy. A lack of certain nutrients, such as iron deficiency anemia and zinc deficiency, may trigger the unusual cravings. Pica may also occur in adults who crave a certain texture in their mouths.
Answered 11/20/2014
4.9k views
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