Let me clarify regarding the mom who is craving chalk. Her current labs do
not indicate a low hemoglobin. She has also worked with another dietitian
who has suggested other, less harmful food items with texture similar to
chalk that might fulfill her cravings and has even suggested a couple of
Tums for texture and added calcium. Those suggestions did not seem to
satisfy her cravings.
I am also aware that research has shown that pica can largely be culturally
related. For example, the tradition of dirt/clay eating spread to the
southern US with the spread of slaves from Africa to that area. This
practice is then passed down through generations.
Thanks for everyones input thus far. I'm anxious to hear of more ideas...
Eileen Bochsler

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