The craving and consumption of cornstarch, laundry starch, or raw flour is a specific dietary behavior. This intense desire for starchy, non-nutritive substances is medically classified and frequently signals an underlying physiological imbalance. Understanding this compulsion requires recognizing it as a symptom that needs professional attention, not a personal failing.
Understanding Pica and Amylophagy
The persistent, compulsive appetite for non-food items or substances with no nutritional value is medically termed Pica. To be diagnosed, the behavior must last for at least one month and be inappropriate for the individual’s developmental level. Pica manifests in various forms, such as the consumption of ice, known as pagophagia.
The specific subtype of Pica involving the craving for pure starches, like cornstarch or raw flour, is called Amylophagy. This behavior is disproportionately observed in women, including those of childbearing age and pregnant women. Amylophagy is defined by consuming these starches in large quantities, far exceeding their typical use as a food additive.
The Connection to Nutritional Deficiencies
Amylophagy is strongly linked to a nutritional deficiency, most notably iron-deficiency anemia. When the body lacks sufficient iron, it generates unusual cravings, suggesting the behavior is a misguided attempt to correct a deficit. Studies show that individuals who consume cornstarch often have lower levels of iron or ferritin, the protein that stores iron.
While cornstarch contains no iron, consuming it may offer a temporary soothing sensation in the digestive tract or provide a brief, perceived energy boost from the pure carbohydrate. The craving may also be a response to inflammation or discomfort associated with the underlying anemia. The starch may act as an absorbent, creating a cycle of temporary relief and renewed compulsion.
The craving for cornstarch often resolves once the iron deficiency is successfully treated. Iron supplementation, either oral or intravenous, often eliminates amylophagy, supporting the hypothesis that the behavior is a direct physiological symptom of the deficiency. Treating the nutritional cause is the primary method for stopping the behavior. Zinc deficiency is another mineral imbalance sometimes associated with this type of Pica.
Potential Health Risks of Eating Cornstarch
Habitually consuming large amounts of pure cornstarch carries several health risks beyond the initial nutritional deficiency. Cornstarch is a highly refined carbohydrate; excessive intake leads to a significant caloric load without providing micronutrients, protein, or fiber. This consumption can contribute to weight gain and may raise blood sugar levels, potentially complicating conditions like gestational diabetes.
The volume of starch ingested can create significant gastrointestinal problems. Undigested masses of starch may lead to severe constipation and, in extreme cases, intestinal blockage. Cornstarch consumption can also interfere with the absorption of other nutrients, potentially worsening the iron deficiency that triggered the craving. The abrasive texture of raw starch can cause mechanical damage, contributing to dental wear or increasing the risk of cavities.
Medical Approach to Managing the Behavior
The first step in managing cornstarch consumption is a comprehensive medical evaluation to diagnose underlying nutritional deficiencies, particularly anemia and low zinc levels. Healthcare providers will order blood tests, including a complete blood count and ferritin levels, to confirm the presence and severity of a deficit. Patients must be honest about the extent of the craving and consumption.
Treatment primarily focuses on correcting the deficiency, usually involving iron supplementation through high-dose oral tablets or intravenous iron infusions. The cravings often subside once the body’s iron stores are replenished, which can take several weeks or months. Behavioral counseling may also be necessary to address the compulsive nature of the habit, especially if the behavior has become a deeply ingrained coping mechanism.