Craving this 'unusual' food could be a sign of serious health condition

People are being warned that craving an 'unusual' food item could be a warning sign of a health condition. Dr Ben Winters, an orthodontist who has 15 million followers on TikTok says the craving could be red-flag of something more serious.

After watching a clip of a woman eating a bowl of ice shaved directly from her freezer, he said: "What if I told you that you craving and wanting ice actually means there could be something wrong with your health?" He said there are obvious dental risks that come from chomping on ice, such as cracking your tooth on a particularly hard cube.

But, he went on to say that there could be a more serious underlying condition that is prompting that craving. "Probably the most major cause is something called pagophagia," the dentist explained, which could signify you're iron deficient and/or anaemic.

By treating this, the cravings stop. According to the Mayo Clinic, the reason why the craving occurs in cases of anaemia is unclear.

A strange craving is not the only sign you could be struggling with anaemia, however. The NHS lists other common symptoms of iron deficiency anaemia as:

• tiredness and lack of energy

• shortness of breath

• noticeable heartbeats (heart palpitations)

• paler than usual skin

• headaches

You should see a GP if you think you might have iron deficiency anaemia. If the reason for the anaemia is not clear, they might order some tests to find out what might be causing the symptoms or they might also refer you to a specialist for further checks.

In most cases, the GP will usually order a full blood count (FBC) test to find out if the number of red blood cells you have (your red blood cell count) are normal. Once the reason you have iron deficiency anaemia has been found (for example, an ulcer or heavy periods) the GP will recommend treatment.

If the blood test shows your red blood cell count is low, iron tablets will likely be recommended to replace the iron that's missing from your body. You'll need to take them for about six months. Your GP may carry out repeat blood tests over the next few months to check that your iron level is getting back to normal.

In a slightly less serious scenario, Dr Ben Winters explained you might just be chronically dehydrated. He said: "If you're not hydrating properly, you're going to get dehydrated and another big reason for craving ice is your body just saying 'hey, if you're not going to drink the water at least eat some'."

According to the World health Organisation, around 30% of the world’s female population between 15 and 49 are anaemic. If it goes untreated, iron deficiency anaemia can make you more at risk of illness and infection due to a lack of iron affects the immune system.

It may also increase your risk of developing complications that affect the heart or lungs such as an abnormally fast heartbeat (tachycardia) or heart failure. In cases involving pregnant women, or new mums, the condition can cause a greater risk of complications before and after birth.