Last Updated on October 3, 2023
Sand is made up of small particles of rocks and minerals.
It is not digestible, meaning that our bodies cannot break it down into smaller molecules that can be absorbed into the bloodstream.
When we eat sand, it passes through our digestive system without being absorbed, and it eventually comes out in our stool.
However, just because sand is not digestible does not mean that it is harmless.
In fact, eating sand can lead to a number of health problems.
What happens if you eat sand
The severity of the symptoms that occur after eating sand depends on the amount of sand that is eaten and the size of the sand particles.
If a small amount of sand is eaten, it may pass through the digestive system without any problems.
However, if a large amount of sand is eaten, or if the sand particles are large, it can cause a number of problems, including:
- Gastrointestinal pain: Sand can irritate the lining of the stomach and intestines, causing pain.
- Nausea and vomiting: Sand can also cause nausea and vomiting.
- Constipation: Sand can make it difficult to pass stool, leading to constipation.
- Diarrhea: In some cases, sand can cause diarrhea.
- Blockage: If a large amount of sand clumps together, it can block the intestines. This is a serious medical emergency that requires immediate medical attention.
- Infection: Sand can harbor bacteria and parasites that can cause infection in the intestines.
Why eating sand is a bad idea
Eating sand is a bad idea for a number of reasons.
First, as mentioned above, it can cause a number of health problems, including gastrointestinal problems, blockages, infection, and teeth damage.
Second, eating sand can also lead to a condition called pica, which is a compulsive eating disorder that involves eating non-food items.
Pica can be a sign of underlying medical conditions, such as iron deficiency anemia or zinc deficiency.
Third, eating sand can be dangerous for children.
Children are more likely to eat sand than adults, and they are also more likely to choke on it.
Sand can also contain harmful chemicals and toxins, which can be especially dangerous for children.
If you or someone you know has eaten sand, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. Eating sand can be a serious health hazard, and early intervention is important to prevent complications.
Below, a few additional health hazard linked to sand consumption.
Sand can harbor heavy metals and other pollutants.
These pollutants can be absorbed into the body and cause a number of health problems, including cancer, neurological damage, and reproductive problems.
Sand can be contaminated with feces. This can lead to the spread of diseases such as salmonella and E. coli.
Sand can be a choking hazard. Children are especially at risk of choking on sand.
Eating sand can be a sign of a more serious underlying medical condition. For example, people with pica may be eating sand to compensate for a nutritional deficiency.
Pica and Eating Sand: What Causes It and What Are the Risks?
Pica is a condition in which people compulsively eat non-food items, such as sand.
It is most common in children, but it can also occur in adults.
There are a number of possible causes of pica, including nutritional deficiencies, mental health conditions, and cultural practices.
Sand is a common pica trigger because it is easily accessible and can be found in many different environments.
The exact cause of pica is unknown, but it is thought to be caused by a combination of factors, including:
Nutritional deficiencies:
People with pica are more likely to have nutritional deficiencies, such as iron deficiency anemia or zinc deficiency.
These deficiencies may lead to pica as a way for the body to try to get the nutrients it needs.
Mental health conditions:
Pica is more common in people with mental health conditions, such as autism spectrum disorder, schizophrenia, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Eating Sand FAQs
Can you eat sand?
No, you should not eat sand. Sand is not digestible and can cause a number of health problems, including:
- Gastrointestinal problems, such as pain, bleeding, and infection
- Blockages in the intestines
- Infection from bacteria or parasites
- Teeth damage
What if I accidentally eat a little bit of sand?
If you accidentally eat a little bit of sand, it is unlikely to cause any problems.
However, if you eat a large amount of sand, or if the sand particles are large, it is important to see a doctor to rule out any complications.
Can you die from eating sand?
Yes, eating sand can be fatal if a large amount of sand clumps together and blocks the intestines.
This is a rare occurrence, but it can happen, especially in children.
A blocked intestine can prevent food and fluids from passing through, which can lead to serious complications, including dehydration, malnutrition, and even death.
What are the long-term effects of eating sand?
Eating sand can damage the lining of the stomach and intestines, leading to chronic pain and inflammation.
This can make it difficult to digest food and absorb nutrients.
Sand can also harbor bacteria and parasites, which can cause infection.
Over time, this can lead to a number of health problems, including malnutrition, anemia, and diarrhea.
Is it safe to eat sand if it is clean?
Even clean sand can harbor bacteria and parasites, which can cause infection.
In addition, sand can be abrasive and can damage the teeth and gums.
Therefore, it is never safe to eat sand, even if it appears to be clean.
Why do some people eat sand?
There are a number of reasons why some people eat sand. Some people may eat sand because they have a condition called pica.
Pica is a compulsive eating disorder that involves eating non-food items. People with pica may eat a variety of non-food items, including sand, dirt, chalk, and paper.
Other people may eat sand because they are lacking certain nutrients. For example, people with iron deficiency anemia may eat sand because they are craving iron.
Some people may also eat sand because they have a sensory disorder. People with sensory disorders may enjoy the feeling of sand in their mouth or the taste of it.
What is pica?
Pica is a compulsive eating disorder that involves eating non-food items.
People with pica may eat a variety of non-food items, including sand, dirt, chalk, and paper.
Pica can occur in people of all ages, but it is more common in children and pregnant women and can be a sign to mineral deficiency.
Read also: What is Sand? From Mystical Properties to Building Material
Your n°1 source of information on the world of sandsports and desert adventure travel. Our articles are the result of extensive research, personal experience, and knowledge-sharing within the global sandboarding community.
