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Raymond Ondieki
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Raymond Ondieki
@RaymondMagwiji
X Supreme Leader
Nairobi, Kenya Katılım Nisan 2025
10.9K Takip Edilen15.3K Takipçiler
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PICA ( HABIT OF EATING NON-FOOD ITEMS)
"Daktari, Mbona Wengine Hupenda Kula Udongo?" – Let's Talk About Pica
One of my followers recently asked me to talk about a habit that many people have seen but few understand—women craving and eating clay (udongo), soil, chalk, ash, ice, or other non-food items.
This condition is known as Pica.
Pica is a medical condition where a person repeatedly craves and eats substances that have little or no nutritional value for at least one month. While it is commonly seen during pregnancy, it can also affect children, teenagers, and adults.
Many pregnant women describe the craving as being so strong that they feel they cannot resist it. They may say they love the smell of wet soil after rain or cannot go a day without eating clay. This is not simply "strange behavior"—sometimes it is the body's way of signaling that something may be wrong.
Why does Pica happen?
There is no single cause, but several factors may contribute:
🩺 Iron deficiency anemia – This is one of the most common causes. Low iron levels can trigger unusual cravings.
🩺 Zinc deficiency and other nutritional deficiencies.
🩺 Pregnancy – Hormonal and nutritional changes may increase the risk.
🩺 Mental health conditions such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) or developmental disorders.
🩺 Cultural practices – In some communities, eating clay is considered normal or even encouraged during pregnancy.
Is eating clay safe?
Many people believe it is harmless, but it can lead to serious health problems, including:
❌ Constipation and severe stomach pain.
❌ Intestinal blockage that may require surgery.
❌ Worm infestations and infections.
❌ Exposure to harmful bacteria, parasites, pesticides, or toxic heavy metals such as lead.
❌ Poor absorption of important nutrients like iron, making anemia even worse.
For pregnant women, these complications can also affect the health of the unborn baby.
What should you do if you have these cravings?
The first step is not to feel embarrassed. Pica is a recognized medical condition, and help is available.
Visit a health facility where your healthcare provider may:
✔ Check your blood for anemia and other nutritional deficiencies.
✔ Treat any underlying medical condition.
✔ Recommend iron or other supplements if needed.
✔ Offer guidance on safe nutrition during pregnancy.
✔ Provide further evaluation if the cravings persist.
The bottom line
Craving clay is not always "just a pregnancy thing." Sometimes it is your body asking for help. Instead of hiding the habit or being judged, seek medical advice early. Treating the underlying cause often makes the cravings disappear.
Have you, or someone you know, ever experienced cravings for clay, chalk, ice, or other non-food items? Share your experience in the comments. Your story may help someone else realize they need medical attention.
Health is Wealth. 🩺
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