Amylophagia is a condition involving the compulsive consumption of excessive amounts of purified starch. It is a form of pica and is often observed in pregnant women. Amylophagia is distinct from a traditional diet containing a great deal of starchy staples such as potatoes, rice etc. In this condition patients feel a compulsion to consume refined starch such as cornstarch and continue to eat it for at least one month.
Contents |
Amylophagia arises from a combination of biochemical, haematological, psychological, psychopathological and cultural factors.Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; invalid names, e.g. too many; see the help page Many say that they are physiologically compelled to eat starch, and starchy things, because enjoy the taste, texture or smell[1] while others say that it helps relieve stress and makes them feel calmer. It has also been said that it may be the result of a nutritional deficiency. Although the cause of Amylophagia is still unknown a number of these factors may contribute to its development.
Those who are most commonly affected include pregnant woman, developmental disabilities, young children, people with poor nutrition status and certain cultural backgrounds.[2]
The health risks associated with Amylophagia include hyperglycemia, malnutrition and anemia. High blood sugar is the most common result from the consumption of pure starch because of the high level of carbohydrates which are broken down into sugar in the body. There is 35 calories in 1 tablespoon of 100% pure cornstarch with no nutrients and 100% of the calories being from carbohydrates.[3] The consumption of purified starch provides a high caloric intake with little nutritional value which leads to malnutrition and weight gain. Malnutrition can cause iron deficiency anemia if not enough iron is being absorbed to transport sufficient oxygen to the body. Additionally starch can build up in the gastrointestinal tract and cause a blockage.
Amylophagia during pregnancy results in similar characteristics to that of gestational diabetes and is often misdiagnosed. After the consumption of large amounts of starch blood glucose levels reach well above the normal level of 5-8mmol/L for someone two hours after they have eaten a meal.[4] Levels above this normal range can lead to high birth weight that can result in complications during delivery and low blood sugar levels in the new born which also can lead to health risks.[5]
Treatment of Amylophagia begins with treatment of the underlying health factors. It often includes nutritional awareness, dietary planning, psychological counselling, and sometimes medication.[2] Treatment of nutritional deficiency may cause cravings to stop and Amylophagia to be treated, but it is often not this easy.