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We have seen kids chewing on things like ice, dirt, chalk and so on. We naturally assume that it ceases during childhood– well, a little over one percent of adults indulge in this habit too. Our immediate perception of chewing ice is mentally linked to brain freeze and how it might feel good. While chewing ice may seem like a harmless habit, it could signal underlying health issues and cause serious dental damage over time.
Known as pagophagia, the compulsive craving to chew ice is a type of pica; a condition where people consume non-nutritive substances like dirt or chalk. While occasional ice chewing is generally safe, persistent cravings might indicate deeper health concerns. Read on to know all about it alongside consequences and coping tips.
Related: Is Sleeping On Your Stomach Bad For Your Heart? Expert Answers
What Is Pagophagia?
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Pagophagia is the intense and persistent urge to chew ice cubes, frost, or ice chips. It is often linked to iron deficiency anaemia, as studies show that iron supplements can reduce these cravings. In fact, chewing ice may temporarily improve alertness and mental focus in individuals with anaemia by increasing blood flow to the brain.
Pagophagia can also be connected to:
- Underlying stress and emotional issues such as anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, or developmental disorders in children.
- Nutritional deficiencies like iron deficiency is a common trigger for pagophagia.
- Dental inflammation as ice chewing may soothe inflamed gums or tongue but at the cost of long-term dental health.
Risks Of Chewing Ice
According to WebMD, regularly chewing ice can lead to several health concerns, especially for your teeth and overall well-being.
Dental Damage
- Weakens tooth enamel, increasing the risk of cavities.
- Cracks or chips teeth, potentially requiring root canals.
- Damages braces, crowns, or fillings.
Tooth Sensitivity and Gum Irritation
Prolonged ice chewing can lead to tooth sensitivity, making teeth vulnerable to temperature extremes and prone to cavities. Sharp ice shards can also injure your gums, potentially causing infections or gum recession.
A Hint Towards Nutritional Deficiencies and Serious Health Issues
Persistent ice chewing may push out other foods, increasing the risk of malnutrition, especially in individuals with eating disorders or anaemia. Pagophagia can be linked to eating disorders, stress, or even developmental and emotional health issues. It might also indicate a need for mental health support or therapy.
Chewing Ice Is Linked To Anaemia
Chewing non-food things like ice can be a possible sign of iron deficiency in anaemia. Based on a study published in PubMed, ice-chewing improved alertness and mental processing speed in people with anaemia.
What Can You Do About Ice Cravings?
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If you frequently crave ice, addressing the underlying cause is essential:
- Uncover Underlying Issues: Anaemia could be the cause, which is why consulting a doctor would be a good idea before proceeding with anything.
- Therapy: Cognitive-behavioral therapy or talk therapy can help if the cravings are stress-related or linked to emotional health issues.
- Dental Care: Consult a dentist to prevent or treat damage to teeth and gums caused by ice chewing.
How to Break the Habit
Replace ice with sugar-free gum to satisfy the chewing urge without harming your teeth and address any nutritional deficiencies or emotional stressors with the help of a healthcare provider. Keep a constant check on your cravings and visit a doctor at the earliest. At times, things that seem trivial set the stage for something critical.
Stop Chewing Ice!
Chewing ice occasionally is unlikely to cause harm, but persistent and compulsive ice chewing (pagophagia) may indicate serious health problems like iron deficiency anaemia, stress, or an eating disorder. It can also damage your teeth, gums, and jaw, leading to long-term dental health complications. Identifying and addressing the root cause, whether through medical treatment, therapy, or dietary changes is essential for managing this habit and improving overall well-being.
Note: If you find yourself craving ice and chewing it too often, we advise you to consult a specialist. This article is solely for informational purposes and is not deterministic in nature.