05/07/2025

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Malaysian Paper

/thesundaily /

Ice chewing may signal health issues

o Habit symptom of anaemia, which occurs when body lacks haemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen: Expert

KUALA some individuals, ice is not just a beverage companion, but a daily “snack” that is eaten for its crunchy texture and cooling sensation. However, behind this habit lies a question – is it a preference or sign of an underlying health issue? Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences deputy dean of academics Prof Dr Barakatun Nisak Mohd Yusof said the habit of chewing ice is known as pagophagia, a type of pica (eating disorder), which is a compulsive craving to consume substances that are usually not considered food. “A systematic review of 89 studies in 33 countries found that 22.5% of pica cases involved chewing ice. The same study also reported that 81% of cases occurred alongside anaemia, indicating a strong correlation between the two conditions,” she told Bernama. Barakatun, who is also a dietetics expert at UPM, said many individuals with iron deficiency or anaemia develop a craving for chewing ice, a habit that stops once iron levels are restored. “What may seem like a harmless habit could actually be a sign of a nutritional disorder. While ice itself does not affect the digestive system, LUMPUR: For

its link to pica reflects a more serious underlying health concern.” She explained that pagophagia is one of the indirect symptoms of anaemia, which occurs when the body lacks sufficient haemoglobin, the substance in red blood cells that carries oxygen. “Symptoms of anaemia include fatigue, paleness, shortness of breath, headaches and in some cases, a craving to chew ice.” She recommends that individuals with this habit undergo blood tests to check haemoglobin levels, serum ferritin, serum iron and total iron binding capacity to assess iron absorption levels. “Although there are no official statistics in Malaysia, chewing ice should not be dismissed. It may be an early sign of nutrient deficiency and should be screened or referred for further examination. “The most important step is to treat the root cause, not just to substitute the ice. Whether it stems from nutritional deficiency, emotional stress or compulsive behaviour, the treatment must be holistic,” she emphasised. Universiti Malaya Faculty of Dentistry associate professor Dr Nor Azlida Mohd Nor said pagophagia could pose risks to dental health.

Prolonged chewing of hard objects could lead to cracks in the teeth that affect the nerves and roots, potentially requiring complex dental treatment. – ADAM AMIR HAMZAH/THESUN

meals, to the point she would order a glass of ice just to satisfy her craving. “If I couldn’t chew ice, I’d feel stressed and unsatisfied. But I’m grateful that I haven’t experienced any health issues,” said Nadhirah, who eventually decided to quit the habit after realising the potential risks.

the teeth that affect the nerves and roots, potentially requiring complex dental treatment. “In some cases, it may also affect the jaw joints and surrounding muscles, leading to pain, clicking sounds or difficulty moving the jaw.” For Nur Nadhirah Ali Imran, 26, ice used to be her must-have during

“If chewing ice is only done occasionally, it does not have serious effects on the teeth. But if it becomes habitual, it could cause tooth sensitivity, wear and micro-cracks or fractures in the teeth or existing fillings.” She also said prolonged chewing of hard objects could lead to cracks in

HoHoBus makes debut in Perlis KANGAR: The Hop-On Hop-Off Bus (HoHoBus) service is the latest attraction to boost tourism here, in line with promotions for Visit Perlis Year, which has been extended until 2026. State Tourism, Arts and Culture and Rural Development Committee chairman Abu Bakar Hamzah said the service facilitates showcasing the uniqueness of 10 locations to tourists. “This initiative aligns with the state desire to intensify the promotion of Visit Perlis Year and enhance existing attractions such as the decorated ‘Choley’ (a three-wheeled motorised

RM3, with the journey covering 10 destinations around Perlis. Tickets can be purchased at the Perlis Sentral Terminal. “This is a fresh initiative to provide a different experience for visitors to enjoy the beauty of the padi fields and village atmosphere.” – Bernama

State Local Government, Information and Digital Committee chairman Asrul Aimran Abd Jalil and Kangar Municipal Council president Affendi Rajini Kanth were also present. Asrul said the service is being offered at promotional fares as low as Housing and

taxi) in Kuala Perlis,” he said after the launch of the HoHoBus service. The event was officiated by the Raja Muda of Perlis Tuanku Syed Faizuddin Putra Jamalullail. Also in attendance was the Raja Puan Muda of Perlis Tuanku Dr Hajah Lailatul Shahreen Akashah Khalil.