text: the constant urge to "chew" ice.any side effects? i have a close friend who loves to chew ice whenever she gets the chance.... all the time to be exact. anyway, i would like to know whether this practice has any side effects on the body. i am concerned because i vaguely remember reading though a column (dear abby or ann landers) a few years back, and finding that ice chewing causes iron deficiency. i am not certain this is true, but i am eager to know. any other facts would be very much appreciated! thanks. you're almost right.  the compulsion of  chewing ice cubes is related to iron deficiency ( it's not the cause of it, rather is a consequence of it).  usually people with anemia will have the urge to chew ice.  you should advise your friend to make a blood test to check if she has anemia.  in the meantime, you might tell her to soften the ice in a glass of water for a bit before the chomping. it helps keep the teeth and fillings from breaking.   i hope this can help you a bit!  cheers,  claire ;p