Well, munching on an ice cube from a cold beverage isn’t a problem at all if done rarely as it may help you offer needed hydration, specifically in hot weather. Eating ice, also called pagophagia, is a form of pica, a condition characterised by compulsive consumption of non-nutritive ingredients.
However, persistent cravings and consuming ice may signal an underlying health condition and possibly lead to dental issues and mental health or nutritional deficiencies.
Take this two-minute read to understand whether eating ice is bad for you, the causes behind ice cravings, and the potential health impacts of this habit.
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Why Am I Craving Ice?
You may be experiencing a craving or a compulsion to eat ice for numerous reasons.
Dehydration
Dehydration is a state when the human body loses more fluids than it takes in. This can make you feel very thirsty and make you crave ice, as dehydration can dry your mouth, tongue, and lips. Though chewing on an ice cube may be beneficial occasionally to replenish the lost fluids and regulate body temperature, it’s always best to ensure that you’re getting sufficient fluids. Headache, fatigue, and dark-coloured urine are other signs of dehydration.
Iron Deficiency Anaemia
Iron deficiency anaemia is one of the most common reasons for ice cravings. The exact reasons why anaemia leads to ice cravings are not evident, but it’s believed that chewing ice may help improve alertness and ease symptoms of anaemia fatigue and low energy levels.
Also Read: Anemia: Causes, Symptoms And Treatment
Nutritional Deficiencies
Some studies reveal that ice cravings may be the result of certain nutritional deficiencies. As there is evidence of iron deficiency and having an ice-chewing compulsion, medical experts are studying the possible link between the intake of other nutrients and the wish to eat ice.
Evidence also suggests that craving ice may be the body’s attempt to improve nutrients owing to a zinc or calcium deficiency. These minerals are vital for augmenting overall health but may also interact with iron in nutrient assimilation.
Thus, it’s important to have a wholesome and varied diet regimen packed with essential vitamins and minerals to avert such nutritional deficiencies.
Psychological Factors
Stress, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and other psychological issues can also lead to pagophagia. Chewing ice might be a coping mechanism for dealing with stress or anxiety.
Pica
Pica is an eating disorder that results in excess intake of non-food items or non-nutritional ingredients, such as ice. This abnormal eating behaviour can cause a person to regularly have at least a tray of ice cubes, and it may aggravate when stressed.
Though, there’s no specific cause of pagophagia. A few studies suggest that it can be caused due to iron deficiency anaemia or mental health problems.
Also Read: Pica: Causes, Symptoms And Treatment
Does Ice Eating Cause Any Health Complications?
Dental Problems
Chewing very hard compounds like ice can wear out the enamel, the protective outer layer of your teeth, resulting in sensitivity and pain.
The force given while eating on ice can cause teeth to crack or chip, requiring dental care.
Sharp ice pieces can damage the gums, leading to inflammation and bleeding.
Digestive Issues
Larger ice cubes can pose a risk of choking, mainly for children and older people.
Regular ice consumption can lead to stomach discomfort, and in very rare situations, it may result in gastroparesis, where the intestine takes a long time to empty the food.
Nutritional Concerns
A constant craving for ice may conceal other underlying nutritional deficiencies, specifically iron deficiency. If not attended to on time, this can result in more severe health complications.
When to Seek Medical Help?
If you frequently crave and consume ice, it's essential to seek immediate medical help. A healthcare provider will conduct tests to determine if you have an iron deficiency or other nutritional problems and provide appropriate treatment. Addressing the root cause of pagophagia can significantly improve your health and well-being.
Conclusion
Though eating ice occasionally might not pose significant health risks, a persistent craving for ice can indicate underlying health issues that need attention. It's crucial to understand the reasons behind your ice cravings and seek medical help if necessary. You can sustain better overall health and well-being by addressing deficiencies and being mindful of potential dental and digestive complications associated with ice eating.
( This article is reviewed by Soumita Basu Ayurvedic Pharma Expert)
References:
Pica/Pagophagia-Associated Hyponatremia: Patient Presenting With Seizure
Monitoring Editor: Alexander Muacevic and John R Adler
Genanew Bedanie, corresponding author1 Alay Tikue,1 Thanita Thongtan,1 Mohamed Zitun,1 and Kenneth Nugent2
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7384452/
Ask about ice, then consider iron
Antoinette Rabel, MS, FNP-BC,1 Susan F. Leitman, MD,2 and Jeffery L. Miller, MD1
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4635104/
