A persistent and intense desire to eat corn starch is a recognized medical phenomenon that warrants attention. This unusual urge is classified as a specific type of atypical eating behavior, where a person compulsively seeks out and consumes a substance with little to no nutritional value. This craving for a non-food item is often a strong indicator of a deeper physiological imbalance that requires professional evaluation.
What is Pica and Amylophagia?
The umbrella term for compulsively craving and consuming non-nutritive substances for a sustained period is Pica. Pica involves a wide range of substances, including common items like ice, dirt, clay, hair, or paint chips. For a diagnosis to be made, this behavior must persist for at least one month and be developmentally inappropriate.
The specific subtype of Pica characterized by the craving for starch, such as raw corn starch or laundry starch, is known as Amylophagia. While starch is technically a carbohydrate, Amylophagia involves the consumption of raw, highly processed, or non-food grade starches in excessive quantities. Individuals with Amylophagia often describe an overwhelming compulsion or irresistible draw to the texture and taste of these starches.
The Primary Physiological Causes of the Craving
Iron Deficiency Anemia is the strongest correlation linked to Amylophagia. This condition occurs when the body lacks enough iron to produce adequate hemoglobin, the substance in red blood cells that carries oxygen. Studies have consistently shown that individuals with Pica behaviors, including starch craving, have a significantly higher risk of being anemic.
The biological mechanism connecting low iron levels to the specific desire for corn starch is unclear. One hypothesis suggests that the lack of iron impairs certain enzyme systems related to taste and digestion, potentially leading to an “iron-seeking” behavior manifested as an unusual craving. This craving is considered a symptom of the deficiency, and corn starch does not provide any of the missing iron.
Other micronutrient deficiencies, particularly low plasma zinc levels, have also been associated with Pica behaviors. Zinc is involved in numerous bodily functions, and its deficiency may contribute to the development of these unusual cravings. The craving for starch can also arise from malnourishment or increased nutritional demands, which is why Amylophagia is frequently observed during pregnancy when the body’s need for iron and other nutrients increases substantially.
Health Risks Associated with Consuming Corn Starch
The consumption of large quantities of corn starch, while seemingly benign, carries several distinct health risks. Corn starch is a highly refined carbohydrate that provides calories but lacks fiber, protein, vitamins, and essential minerals. This can lead to nutritional displacement, where the starch fills the stomach, reducing the appetite for nutrient-dense foods and exacerbating the original deficiency.
Excessive intake can cause digestive system complications. Consuming raw starches can lead to:
- Constipation.
- Bloating.
- Abdominal pain.
- Intestinal obstruction or blockages requiring medical intervention in prolonged cases.
Another physical consequence is the potential for dental damage. The abrasive texture of raw starch can lead to tooth wear and decay. Furthermore, the high caloric load from corn starch (about 30 calories per tablespoon) may result in unwanted weight gain and increase the risk of high blood sugar levels with chronic consumption.
Seeking Diagnosis and Treatment
If you are experiencing a persistent craving for corn starch, the first step is to consult a healthcare provider. Since the craving is frequently a symptom of an underlying medical problem, the diagnostic process begins with a comprehensive medical history and a physical examination.
Your doctor will typically order blood tests to investigate potential nutritional deficiencies. These tests usually include a complete blood count to check for anemia. They will also check iron stores through tests like serum ferritin, and may also check levels of other micronutrients like zinc.
The treatment approach focuses on correcting the root cause of the craving. If Iron Deficiency Anemia is identified, the primary treatment involves iron supplementation and dietary adjustments. Behavioral therapy may also be recommended to help manage the compulsive habit while the physiological issue is being treated.