text: You're almost right. \nThe compulsion of  chewing ice cubes is related to iron deficiency ( it's not the cause of it, rather is a consequence of it).\n\nUsually people with anemia will have the urge to chew ice.\n\nYou should advise your friend to make a blood test to check if she has anemia.\n\nIn 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. \n\nI hope this can help you a bit!\n\nCheers,\n\nClaire ;P