What is the primary population that may engage in geophagia?

The primary population that may engage in geophagia is often identified as pregnant women. This practice refers to the ingestion of soil or clay and is believed to be influenced by various factors such as nutritional deficiencies, particularly the desire for certain minerals like iron and calcium, which pregnant women may seek out.

During pregnancy, women might experience cravings for non-food items, a phenomenon known as pica, which encompasses a range of behaviors, including geophagia. The urge to consume earth materials can stem from physiological needs or psychological factors during this critical period of pregnancy.

Other populations might also engage in geophagia; however, the evidence and prevalence are significantly more pronounced among pregnant women, making them the primary group associated with this behavior. Understanding this context helps to recognize why this specific demographic is often highlighted in discussions about geophagia.