Effects of maternal geophagia on infant and juvenile rats

Clay eating, a form of geophagia, is often observed in the human population, particularly during pregnancy. The intent of this study was to determine the effects of maternal geophagia on developmental and behavioral characteristics of the offspring. Twelve Sprague-Dawley female rats and their 88 progeny were divided into three groups: control, 20 percent clay, and 35 percent clay. The experimental diets were fed to adult rats during the period of gestation and for 14 days following parturition. Righting reflex, homing response, and activity level tests were administered and hemoglobin concentrations and red blood cell counts were determined. Data suggest that the higher level of maternal clay ingestion during the perinatal period decreased growth and development of motor skills in the infant pups. Homing skills, however, were enhanced.