Consume adequate amounts of iron, folic acid, and vitamin B12. 15 pregnant women 30 Vitamin C increases iron absorption. Large amounts of antacids, dietary fiber, coffee, tea, phosphates, phytates, and oxalates decrease iron absorption. Pica Definition Pica is a condition where a woman craves non-nutritious substances during pregnancy. Some pica substances are dirt, clay, starch, ice, charcoal, air fresheners, and mothballs.
Pica is prevalent among southern black populations.
Concerns Ingestion of dirt, clay, and starch can interfere with normal iron absorption causing anemia. Substances such as air fresheners and mothballs contain toxic materials. Starch is high in calories and may contribute to obesity. Nutritional Prevention Adequate intake of iron usually abates the non-food cravings associated with pica. For recommended amounts and sources, refer to Anemia.