Tag: Eating cornstarch

According to health experts, most people only use 1–2 tablespoons of cornstarch in a dish, a small amount that is generally safe for consumption. This guide will detail how much cornstarch is safe to consume, exploring its health implications and best practices for moderate use.

Cornstarch is a highly refined carbohydrate containing little to no nutritional value. While a common kitchen ingredient used to thicken sauces, deliberately consuming it raw, especially by the spoonful, poses various health risks beyond its lack of nutrients.

Approximately 5% of pregnant women experience pica, a condition that can cause cravings for substances like cornstarch. While cornstarch is a common cooking ingredient, eating cornstarch, especially in large amounts, can have significant effects on your body, impacting blood sugar and digestion.

According to the USDA, cornstarch is a highly refined carbohydrate, lacking essential nutrients like fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals. This makes its nutritional value almost non-existent, so you might wonder, **is it okay if you eat cornstarch?** The answer depends heavily on how much and how often you consume it.

According to a meta-analysis, pica—the craving and consumption of non-food items—is significantly associated with increased odds of anemia and lower iron levels, with a craving for starch being a specific manifestation. This means that if you or someone you know is asking, 'What is the cause of eating cornstarch?', the answer is often complex and deeply rooted in physiological and psychological needs.