Geophagia is the medical term for craving and eating dirt of any kind, including earth, soil, or clay, something that has notable side effects.

Curious why so many creatures eat dirt? Dig into this gallery to uncover the surprising science behind geophagia.

Background: Geophagy or earth-eating is common amongst some Bangladeshi women, esp. those who are pregnant, both in Bangladesh and in the United Kingdom. A large proportion of the population in ...