Iron Deficiency Signs: Have you ever seen a child put soil in their mouth? Or heard someone admit they crave chalk or paper? It may sound strange. Many people dismiss it as a childhood habit. However, doctors say it could be something more serious.
Health experts warn that the urge to eat non-food items is not always harmless. In some cases, it may signal underlying health problems. One of the most important Iron Deficiency Signs can appear in this unusual way.
Dr Priyanka Sehrawat, a general physician and neurologist trained at AIIMS, New Delhi, recently explained this issue in an Instagram video. She said that strong cravings for chalk, mud, paper or clay are often linked to a recognised eating disorder called Pica.
What Is Pica And How Is It Linked To Iron Deficiency?
According to Dr Sehrawat, many patients visit her clinic with similar complaints. They report a strong urge to eat soil, chalk or other non-food items. She explains that this is not just a habit. It is a medical condition known as Pica.
In her words, many patients say they feel a powerful craving to eat soil or chalk. She explains that doctors call this condition Pica.
Medical sources, including the Cleveland Clinic, describe Pica as an eating disorder where a person repeatedly craves and consumes non-food substances for at least one month. These items can include:
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- Dirt
- Clay
- Chalk
- Paper
- Paint chips
- Hair
Pica is often linked to underlying issues. These may include iron deficiency, zinc deficiency, pregnancy or certain mental health conditions.
Iron Deficiency Signs You Should Not Ignore
One of the most common triggers behind Pica is iron deficiency. Dr Sehrawat says this condition can affect anyone. It is seen in children, teenagers and adults.
If someone suddenly develops cravings for non-food items, doctors recommend checking iron levels. Low iron can disrupt normal body functions and may lead to unusual cravings.
Common Iron Deficiency Signs include:
- Fatigue and weakness
- Pale skin
- Shortness of breath
- Brittle nails
- Unusual cravings like chalk or soil
Dr Sehrawat advises that if such symptoms appear, people should increase iron-rich foods in their diet. These include leafy greens, lentils, beans, red meat and fortified cereals. However, diet alone may not be enough. If tests confirm deficiency, proper iron supplements under medical supervision are necessary.
She clearly states that iron deficiency is a very common cause of Pica and can affect people at any age. If symptoms occur, it is important to get iron levels tested and start treatment if needed.
Ignoring these cravings may delay diagnosis. So, the next time someone brushes off the urge to eat chalk or mud, it may be wise to look deeper. Sometimes, the body sends signals in unusual ways and recognising Iron Deficiency Signs early can prevent bigger health problems later.
