Is it safe to eat gravel?
Quick Answer
No
Eating gravel is not safe. It can cause serious harm to your digestive tract, including choking, tooth damage, and intestinal blockage.
What Is It?
Gravel is a loose aggregation of rock fragments. It is classified by particle size range and includes size classes from granule to boulder-sized fragments.
Why It Can Be Risky
There are several risks associated with eating gravel.
- Choking: Small pieces of gravel can get lodged in the throat, causing choking.
- Tooth damage: The hardness of gravel can cause significant damage to the teeth.
- Intestinal blockage: If swallowed, gravel can block the intestines, which is a serious medical emergency.
- Infection: Gravel is not sterile and can carry bacteria or parasites that can cause illness.
Safe Alternatives
If you find yourself craving non-food items like gravel, it may be a sign of a condition called pica. It’s important to talk to a healthcare provider about these cravings. They can help identify any potential nutritional deficiencies and suggest safe alternatives.