Craving ice? It may say more than you think
Updated: 6 days ago
Do You Know? For patients.
Some people cannot stop chewing ice. It feels like a harmless habit, but a strong, persistent craving for ice has a medical name, pagophagia, and it can be a sign of low iron.
What the research shows
Craving and eating non-food items (pica), including ice, is reported by about 40 to 50% of people with iron deficiency.
In one study of men with iron-deficiency anaemia, about a third craved ice, and the craving went away once their iron was replaced.
Iron deficiency is common, especially in women with heavy periods and during pregnancy. Other signs include tiredness, poor concentration and restless legs.
Why your dentist cares
Chewing hard ice can crack enamel, chip teeth and break fillings, crowns and veneers.
Low iron can also show in the mouth: a pale or sore, smooth tongue and cracks at the corners of the lips.
Sudden sensitivity or a sharp pain when biting can mean a crack. Have it checked early, before it spreads.
What to do
If you crave ice most days, mention it to your doctor and ask whether your iron (ferritin) should be checked. Do not start iron tablets without medical advice.
Let ice melt or drink chilled water instead of crunching.
Tell your dentist if you chew ice, especially if you have crowns, veneers or large fillings.
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Related: Worn teeth treatment
This article is general information and not a substitute for an examination.
References
Auerbach M, DeLoughery TG, Tirnauer JS. Iron deficiency in adults: a review. JAMA. 2025;333(20):1813-1823. doi:10.1001/jama.2025.0452
Barton JC, Barton JC, Bertoli LF. Pagophagia in men with iron-deficiency anemia. Blood Cells Mol Dis. 2019;77:72-75. doi:10.1016/j.bcmd.2019.04.002
Benson AE, et al. The incidence, complications, and treatment of iron deficiency in pregnancy. Eur J Haematol. 2022;109(6):633-642. doi:10.1111/ejh.13870
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