Tag: Anemia symptoms

Iron deficiency is the most common nutritional deficiency worldwide, affecting up to 25% of the global population. The health problems associated with a lack of iron can be surprisingly widespread, impacting not only red blood cell production but also energy levels, cognitive function, and even heart health.

Iron deficiency, the most common nutritional deficiency worldwide, can lead to a range of serious conditions, with iron deficiency anemia (IDA) being the most well-known. When left unaddressed, the disorders caused by iron deficiency can significantly impact overall health and quality of life.

According to the World Health Organization, iron deficiency is the most common nutritional disorder globally, affecting billions. The primary deficiency symptom for iron (Fe) in humans is anemia, causing fatigue and paleness, while in plants, it manifests as a distinct yellowing of new leaves with green veins, a condition known as chlorosis.

Globally, iron deficiency is the most common nutritional disorder. A key aspect of this is inadequate ferric iron ($Fe^{3+}$), which can disrupt vital bodily functions and lead to significant health complications if left unaddressed.

According to a study published in the *Journal of the American Board of Family Medicine*, chewing on ice can be a sign of underlying iron deficiency anemia, a condition where the body lacks healthy red blood cells. While craving a sugary ice lolly might seem like a simple summertime habit, a compulsive and persistent desire for them could be a sign of something more significant, ranging from nutritional needs to psychological factors.

Between 30% and 50% of people experiencing pica, the craving for non-nutritive substances, have iron-deficiency anemia. This is an important symptom to understand.

According to a 2017 study in the journal *Nutrients*, iron deficiency can trigger a powerful and unusual craving for non-food items, a condition known as pica. These strange cravings, along with other symptoms, can be an indicator that your iron levels are low, and it is crucial to recognize these signals for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Up to 56% of people with iron deficiency anemia have reported a compulsive craving to chew ice, a condition known as pagophagia. While this craving is a strong indicator of low iron, chewing ice is not a beneficial treatment for the condition.

According to a meta-analysis, 30-50% of people with unexplained pica cravings—especially for ice, clay, or starch—have iron-deficiency anemia. These unusual cravings for iron deficiency are a medical phenomenon known as pica, where individuals compulsively desire to eat non-food items.

In one study, 16% of people with iron deficiency anemia reported a strong craving to chew on ice. This compulsion, known as pagophagia, is often a sign that your body lacks sufficient iron, but chewing ice does not solve the underlying problem and carries its own set of risks.