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in collaboration with
Dr Gérald Kierzek (Medical Director of Doctissimo)
Medical validation:
September 18, 2024
Eating stones, chalk, clay… to reduce acne or relieve digestive problems is the latest trend that’s taking off on the social network TikTok. Dr. Gérald’s advice to stop swallowing anything.
Few people would naturally think of ingesting these strange materials, but TikTokers are doubling down on creativity… and appetite. For several weeks, “extreme eaters” have been filming themselves swallowing earth, clay or even chalk to enjoy their supposed benefits.
Trace elements could relieve many ailments
According to the Daily Mailif these Internet users seem to enjoy themselves (or at least claim to) by ingesting these strange materials, it is because they think they are benefiting from the benefits of the trace elements present in the rock.
Eating clay or chalk would thus help to relieve “various digestive problems“, or even to absorb the “toxins from the body” according to the followers. Some even go so far as to claim that the consumption of these products could help to improve “the mood“or to make disappear”acne“.
Online sellers who have sniffed out this trend”mineral” even highlight the subtle flavors of the stones.
On Etsy and eBay, pebbles and other geological detritus intended for human consumption – offered for the modest sum of €12 – are presented as follows:a very pleasant earthy taste with a medium-hard crunch”. Enough to make you salivate!
A practice dangerous for health
Faced with this new trend, Dr. Gérald Kierzek is categorical.
“Eating “dirt” or inedible substances (sometimes called pica) poses risks“, he assures.
By eating these various wastes, you risk:
- Poisoning: Ingestion of toxic substances can cause serious poisoning;
- Intestinal obstructions : Certain objects can block the digestive system, sometimes requiring surgery, or cause internal injuries (sharp or abrasive objects can injure the esophagus, stomach or intestines);
- Infections: Consumption of contaminated materials can lead to bacterial, viral or parasitic infections;
- Nutritional deficiencies;
- Dental problems : watch out for hard objects!
- Exposure to chemicals or heavy metals : some “dirt” may indeed contain harmful chemicals;
- Psychological problems: “Pica disease” can in particular be linked to mental disorders requiring treatment;
- Disruptions of the intestinal microbiota….
That being said, picking up food that has fallen on the ground and eating it does not present any risk, reminds the medical director of Doctissimo.
“So you have to have a eating behavior balanced, neither too sanitized because our environment (tables, cutlery, etc.) are contaminated with bacteria and contribute to the proper functioning of our immune system, nor too dirty (voluntarily ingesting inedible things, such as earth for example, this is called geophagy)”, he notes in conclusion.