Does Starch Cause Anemia? Separating Fact from Dietary Fallacy

November 28, 2025 •

3 min read

According to scientific research, the unusual dietary behavior of consuming large, non-nutritive quantities of starch, a condition called amylophagia, is strongly associated with the development of iron deficiency anemia. This is a critical distinction from the normal intake of starchy foods like rice and potatoes.

Quick Summary

Excessive intake of non-food starches, known as amylophagia, can cause iron deficiency anemia by inhibiting nutrient absorption and displacing iron-rich foods. Normal consumption of starchy foods is not a factor.

Key Points

Amylophagia is the Cause: It is the pathological consumption of large, non-food starches, not the normal intake of starchy foods, that is linked to anemia.
Inhibition of Iron Absorption: Large amounts of laundry starch can bind to iron in the digestive tract, preventing the body from absorbing it effectively.
Nutrient Displacement: The high-calorie, low-nutrient nature of non-food starch replaces iron-rich foods in the diet, leading to a nutritional deficiency.
Pica Can be a Symptom: The compulsive urge to eat starch (amylophagia) can be a symptom of existing iron deficiency, creating a cycle that worsens the condition.
Balanced Diet is Key: Consuming normal amounts of dietary starch from whole foods is healthy and does not cause anemia; a balanced diet is protective.
At-Risk Groups: Certain populations, including pregnant women and those with cultural traditions involving starch or clay eating, are at higher risk.

The relationship between starch and anemia is complex, primarily focusing on the difference between normal dietary habits and the eating disorder known as amylophagia. While starchy foods are a healthy part of a balanced diet for most, the compulsive consumption of large amounts of non-food starch, such as laundry starch or pure cornstarch, is a form of pica that interferes with iron absorption and leads to deficiency. This article clarifies this specific link and why normal consumption is not a concern.

The link between amylophagia and iron deficiency

The connection between starch and anemia is mainly due to amylophagia, an eating disorder involving the compulsive eating of laundry or cornstarch. Research indicates two main ways this contributes to iron deficiency anemia:

Inhibition of iron absorption: Large amounts of laundry starch can bind to iron in the digestive tract, making it unavailable for the body to absorb. This binding is most effective in the small intestine where iron is typically absorbed.
Nutrient displacement: Non-food starches are high in calories but low in nutrients, lacking iron and other essential vitamins. Replacing iron-rich meals with large amounts of starch creates a nutritional deficit that can lead to severe anemia over time.

The difference between dietary starch and non-food starch

It's important to distinguish between consuming starchy foods as part of a normal diet and the behavior of amylophagia. Regular starchy foods like potatoes and whole grains provide energy and nutrients such as fiber and B vitamins.


Feature	Dietary Starch	Non-Food Starch (Amylophagia)
Source	Plant-based foods (potatoes, legumes, grains)	Industrial starches (laundry starch, pure cornstarch)
Nutritional Value	Provides energy, fiber, and micronutrients	Offers empty calories with virtually no nutrients
Effect on Iron	Does not inhibit iron absorption	Strongly inhibits iron absorption and displaces iron-rich foods
Health Impact	Part of a healthy, balanced diet	Leads to severe iron deficiency anemia and other health risks
Cause	Normal food consumption	Pica, an eating disorder often linked to nutritional deficiencies

The vicious cycle of pica and anemia

For some, pica and iron deficiency form a cycle. Cravings for non-food items like starch can be a symptom of existing iron deficiency. Eating starch then worsens the deficiency by inhibiting iron absorption, intensifying the pica cravings and perpetuating the cycle. Pica, including amylophagia, is a serious medical condition requiring intervention.

Potential risks and populations affected

While anyone can develop pica, amylophagia is more common in certain groups, sometimes with cultural ties to starch eating. Higher risk populations include:

Pregnant women: Increased iron needs during pregnancy can lead to cravings for non-food substances like starch or clay, potentially causing or worsening iron deficiency.
Individuals in certain ethnic groups: In some communities, consuming starch or clay is a cultural tradition. If consumed in excess, it can lead to mineral imbalance and anemia.

Healthcare providers should screen for pica in anemic patients, especially in at-risk groups.

When to be concerned and what to do

If you have a history of eating large quantities of non-food starch or experience unusual cravings, consult a healthcare professional. Symptoms of iron deficiency anemia include fatigue, pale skin, chest pain, dizziness, cold hands and feet, tongue inflammation, brittle nails, and unusual cravings (pica).

Treatment typically involves iron supplements, dietary changes, and addressing the root cause of pica. Correcting iron levels can often resolve pica cravings. A registered dietitian can help create a nutritious meal plan.

Conclusion

In summary, normal consumption of dietary starch does not cause anemia. However, the excessive intake of non-food starches, known as amylophagia or pica, contributes to severe iron deficiency anemia by inhibiting iron absorption and displacing nutrient-dense foods. Individuals with unusual eating habits should seek medical advice to address any underlying nutritional deficiencies. For further reading on pica diagnosis and treatment, resources like the American Journal of Gastroenterology provide clinical context.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, consuming regular dietary starch from foods like bread and pasta does not cause anemia. The problem arises from an eating disorder called amylophagia involving large, non-food quantities of starch.

Amylophagia is a form of pica, an eating disorder characterized by a compulsive urge to eat laundry or cornstarch. It is strongly linked to iron deficiency anemia.

Studies have shown that large quantities of laundry starch can bind to both inorganic and hemoglobin iron in the gut, significantly inhibiting its absorption by the body.

While dietary starch is safe, pregnant women should avoid amylophagia. This form of pica is sometimes associated with pregnancy and can lead to severe iron deficiency anemia.

Yes. Any dietary pattern that displaces iron-rich foods can contribute to iron deficiency anemia. High intake of certain cereals high in phytates can also inhibit iron absorption.

The symptoms are the same as any other iron deficiency anemia, including fatigue, weakness, pale skin, cold hands and feet, shortness of breath, and cravings for non-food items (pica).

A high-carb diet per se does not directly cause anemia, but if it lacks sufficient iron and other essential nutrients, it can contribute to a deficiency. A balanced diet with adequate protein and micronutrients is important.