Geophagia is commonly called as clay-eating pica. It may supplement mineral nutrients in individuals with limited intake of trace elements like iron and zinc. Soil eating is an attempt to correct the chlorosis or green sickness with pallor.

Mud eating in children, soil eating (Geo phagia)

Geophagia is commonly called as clay-eating pica. It may supplement mineral nutrients in individuals with limited intake of trace elements like iron and zinc. Soil eating is an attempt to correct the chlorosis or green sickness with pallor. The chlorosis is caused by lack of iron, zinc and other minerals.

Pica is an eating disorder of persistent eating of non nutritive substances.Geophagia is deliberate eating of earth, soil or clay.

It is very common in children. It is sometimes found in children with epilepsy, mental retardation ort developmental problems like autism. It can lead transmission of geohelminths like ascariasis, hook worm.

When to call a doctor

• If there is lead poisoning from eating paint chips
• Bowel problems.
• Intestinal obstruction.
• Parasitic infections.

Diagnosis

• Stool examination for parasites.
• Hemoglobin to see if there is anemia.
• Physical examination.
• Complete blood count.

Complications of Geophagia

• Parasitic infestations like ascariasis, hook worm infestation.
• Toxoplasmosis.
• Lead poisoning.
• Iron deficiency anemia.
• Gastrointestinal problems like constipation, intestinal obstruction, intestinal perforations, ulcerations can occur.

Causes for Geophagia

• Nutritional deficiencies: Deficiencies in iron, calcium, zinc and other nutrients have been associated with pica.
• Cultural and familial factors: Ingestion of clay or soil is culturally acceptable in various social groups.
• Stress like maternal deprivation, parental separation, parental neglect, child use.
• Low socioeconomic status: Malnutrition and hunger can lead to this.
• Non discriminating oral behavior: In individuals with mental retardation, it can result from inability to discriminate between food and non food items.

Treatment

• Education about nutrition.
• Iron therapy.
• Psychological counseling or behavior therapy.