Some individuals consume cornstarch, a substance typically used as a cooking ingredient. This behavior, while not widely understood, is a real phenomenon linked to underlying health conditions and psychological factors.
Understanding Pica and Cornstarch
The medical term for craving and consuming non-nutritive, non-food substances is pica. Cornstarch is one of many non-food items, alongside dirt, clay, ice, or even paint chips, that individuals with pica might consume. Pica is classified as an eating disorder characterized by persistent eating of these substances for at least one month. This behavior is considered outside of typical social or cultural practices and is not attributable to another medical or mental health condition.
Pica can affect individuals across all age groups, though it is more frequently observed in children and pregnant women. While some instances of pica, such as chewing on ice, might seem relatively harmless, consuming other items can pose significant health risks. The condition’s name originates from the magpie (Pica pica), a bird known for its tendency to eat a wide variety of unusual objects.
Common Drivers Behind the Craving
Nutritional deficiencies represent a primary reason some individuals develop a craving for cornstarch. Iron deficiency anemia, a condition where the blood lacks sufficient healthy red blood cells due to low iron levels, is frequently linked to pica, including cornstarch consumption. The body may develop these unusual cravings as an attempt to compensate for perceived nutritional gaps. Iron supplementation often helps alleviate these cravings, suggesting a direct link.
Pregnancy is another common period when cornstarch cravings, a form of pica known as amylophagia, can emerge. Hormonal changes and the increased nutritional demands placed on the body during pregnancy can sometimes trigger these non-food cravings. Studies indicate that a notable percentage of pregnant women, potentially around 27.8% globally, experience pica behaviors, with a strong association to anemia.
Psychological factors, such as stress and anxiety, can also contribute to the development of pica. Eating cornstarch might serve as a coping mechanism, providing a soothing or comforting sensory experience for some individuals.
Beyond deficiencies and psychological states, sensory preferences can drive cornstarch consumption. The unique smooth, powdery texture and the way it dissolves in the mouth can be appealing.
Health Ramifications of Consumption
Regularly consuming cornstarch, especially in large quantities, can lead to several adverse physical effects. Gastrointestinal issues are common, including constipation, abdominal pain, and potentially blockages in the digestive tract, as cornstarch is not easily digestible in raw or large amounts.
Eating cornstarch can also interfere with the absorption of essential nutrients from actual food. While cornstarch itself offers minimal nutritional value, its consumption can reduce the intake of vitamins and minerals, potentially worsening existing deficiencies or creating new ones. This can create a cycle where the underlying deficiency persists, potentially fueling the pica.
Dental damage is another concern associated with cornstarch consumption. The abrasive nature of some non-food items, and even the stickiness of starches, can lead to tooth wear, enamel erosion, and an increased risk of cavities. Cornstarch can promote the formation of bacterial biofilms on teeth, which contribute to dental decay.
There is also a risk of exposure to contaminants. Industrial cornstarch is not intended for direct, large-quantity consumption, and it may contain impurities or non-food grade chemicals.
When Professional Help is Needed
Seeking medical advice is important for individuals who consume cornstarch or other non-food items. Pica is often a symptom of underlying medical or psychological conditions, making professional evaluation necessary. A doctor can conduct blood tests to identify potential nutritional deficiencies, such as iron or zinc, which are frequently associated with pica. They may also perform stool tests for parasites or imaging to check for intestinal blockages.
Treatment approaches for pica typically focus on addressing the root cause. If a nutritional deficiency is identified, such as iron deficiency anemia, supplementation is a common intervention. For psychological drivers, counseling or behavioral therapy can help individuals develop coping mechanisms and reduce the urge to consume non-food substances. In some cases, medication may be considered, particularly if pica is linked to other mental health conditions. Self-treatment is not advised, as it can delay diagnosis and proper management of the underlying condition, potentially leading to further health complications.