Have you ever seen someone munching on a spoonful of corn starch? If so, they might be suffering from a condition called pica, which is characterized by the irresistible urge to consume non-food materials like dirt, chalk, and even corn starch.
What are the reasons for females to eat corn starch?
Pica primarily affects pregnant women and those with iron-deficiency anemia. For pregnant women, the hormonal changes can create cravings for unusual foods. In some cases, eating corn starch might provide them with a sense of fullness. Meanwhile, women who have iron deficiency anemia crave non-food materials because their bodies need more iron than they are getting from their diets. This lack of iron can cause fatigue, weakness, and other symptoms that drive them to consume non-food substances like corn starch.
Moreover, corn starch is cheap, widely available, and easily accessible, which is why it’s frequently consumed by females and is often the preferred option for those with pica.
Is it harmful to eat corn starch?
The short answer is yes. Consuming corn starch can lead to serious health problems, including intestinal obstructions, dental issues, and other complications due to the lack of nutritional value in the substance.
Corn starch is not a nutrient-dense food, and in fact, it contains a high amount of calories and carbohydrates but lacks protein, fiber, vitamins, and other crucial minerals. It also has a high glycemic index, which means that it causes a quick spike in blood sugar levels, followed by a crash that triggers more cravings for sugar.
Furthermore, the body cannot digest corn starch properly, which means that it can build up in the digestive tract and cause obstructions that prevent the absorption of nutrients from other foods. Over time, this can lead to serious issues, including inflammation, constipation, and even blockages that can require medical attention.
How can I stop eating corn starch?
If you’re struggling with pica or corn starch consumption, there are things you can do to stop the habit. First, seek the help of a professional, such as a doctor or therapist, who can guide you through the process of overcoming your cravings. Secondly, increase the amount of iron and other essential vitamins in your diet by eating more whole foods such as meats, beans, and leafy greens. Lastly, keep yourself hydrated as your craving to eat corn starch might stem from chronic dehydration.
In conclusion, while consuming corn starch might seem like a harmless habit, it can have serious health implications. If you or someone you know is struggling with pica or eating non-food materials, seek help immediately to prevent further damage to your health.
References
- Alleyne, T., & Roach, J. (2005). Pica–the consumption of substances with no significant nutritional value. Journal of the Royal Society of Medicine, 98(10), 472–473. https://doi.org/10.1177/014107680509801012
- Knight, B., et al. (2016). Pica: Unusual craving for cornstarch. Canadian Family Physician, 62(3), 244–245. https://www.cfp.ca/content/62/3/244.full
- Department of Health & Human Services. (2019). Iron-deficiency anemia. https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/iron-deficiency-anemia