Crave Dirt or Chalk? Understanding Pica and Nutrient Deficiencies
Summary
Craving non-food substances like dirt, chalk, clay, laundry starch, ice, paper, or tinfoil is a condition linked to nutritional deficiencies — specifically iron deficiency and zinc deficiency. This unusual behavior, known as pica, is commonly associated with anemia. Addressing these deficiencies through food and targeted supplementation can resolve these cravings.
Key Takeaways
- Cravings for non-food substances such as dirt, chalk, clay, laundry starch, ice, paper, or tinfoil are a recognized sign of nutrient deficiency
- The two primary deficiencies driving these cravings are low iron and low zinc
- Being anemic is the most common underlying condition associated with these cravings
- Red meat and liver are the preferred food sources for correcting iron deficiency
- If liver is unpalatable, grass-fed liver pills are an effective alternative for iron intake
- Oysters are highlighted as an excellent whole-food source of zinc
- Zinc can also be taken effectively as a dietary supplement
- The body has difficulty eliminating excess iron, making food-based iron sources preferable over iron pills
Details
The Phenomenon of Craving Non-Food Items (Pica)
Craving substances like dirt, chalk, clay, laundry starch, ice, paper, and even tinfoil are all examples of pica — the compulsive urge to consume non-nutritive substances. According to Dr. Berg, this behavior is a reliable signal that the body is deficient in either iron or zinc, and is typically associated with anemia.
Addressing Iron Deficiency
For correcting iron deficiency, Dr. Berg strongly recommends obtaining iron from whole food sources rather than supplements. His reasoning centers on the body’s limited ability to excrete excess iron — making over-supplementation a potential concern.
Recommended iron sources:
- Red meat — a readily available and highly bioavailable source of heme iron
- Liver — considered one of the most nutrient-dense sources of iron
- Grass-fed liver pills — recommended for those who dislike the taste or texture of liver, while still providing the benefits of whole-food iron
Iron pills are specifically advised against, as the form of iron typically found in supplements is not well-utilized by the body and the risk of accumulation is higher.
Addressing Zinc Deficiency
Zinc deficiency is the second major driver of these unusual cravings. Unlike iron, zinc is considered safer to supplement directly.
Recommended zinc sources:
- Oysters — cited as one of the richest whole-food sources of zinc
- Zinc supplements — considered an acceptable and convenient option for correcting deficiency