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Geophagy (soil consumption) and iron supplementation in Uganda
1Institute of Geography and Earth Sciences, University of Wales, Aberystwyth, UK.
Tropical Medicine & International Health : TM & IH
|July 1, 1997
Summary
Geophagy, the consumption of soil, is common in Uganda and can be a vital source of iron. This mineral supplement is crucial for health, especially where iron deficiency is prevalent and medicines are scarce.
Area of Science:
- Geochemistry
- Mineralogy
- Human Nutrition
Background:
- Geophagy, the deliberate consumption of soil, is a widespread practice in many parts of the world.
- Awareness of geophagy is often limited, despite its prevalence in certain regions.
- Iron deficiency is a significant public health concern, particularly in low-income countries.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the mineralogical and geochemical composition of geophagical materials from Uganda.
- To assess the potential of these soils as an iron supplement for geophagists.
- To highlight the importance of geophagy as a nutritional strategy in resource-limited settings.
Main Methods:
- Collection of geophagical soil samples from Uganda.
- Mineralogical analysis of the soil samples.
- Geochemical analysis to determine elemental composition, focusing on iron content.
Main Results:
- The study identified specific mineralogical and geochemical properties of Ugandan geophagical soils.
- Analysis indicated a significant potential for these soils to supply iron to individuals practicing geophagy.
- The iron content in the analyzed soils suggests a viable source for combating iron deficiency.
Conclusions:
- Geophagical soils in Uganda can be an important source of dietary iron.
- In regions with limited access to healthcare and pharmaceuticals, geophagy may play a crucial role in public health.
- Sensible consumption of these mineral-rich soils can contribute to mitigating iron deficiency.