For many peoples, clay has a strong religious and spiritual connotation. 4) Consumption of Clay: Between Beliefs and BenefitsĬlay is earth. It also helps to strengthen bones, nails, and hair and ensures the proper functioning of the immune system. To the good health of the teeth, and the skin. This substance also contributes to the solidity of the articulations, and ligaments. Silica in particular, which is found in all clays, is important because it is part of the constitution of the human body tissues. It also contains potassium, sodium, iron, calcium, iron, and magnesium. This is due to its high silica and mineral content. 3) Nutrient DeficienciesĪmong all the clays to consume, bentonite clay is the most commercialized. The properties of clay enrich their diet.Īs well as several species of primates, such as mountain gorillas, which benefit from its healing properties. Macaw parrots found in the Amazon take it regularly during periods when they have less to eat. In the animal world too, clay is part of the food routine. Pregnant women, in particular, use it to chase away nausea during their pregnancy.Ĭlay was also used in the Middle Ages, both for internal and external use. It is intended for consumption, as women in these countries often use it regularly. In West Africa and sub-Saharan Africa, clay (white, green, or other) is generally found on the markets. 2) Clay is Consumed by People and Animals It would therefore be an iron deficiency that would cause a desire to eat clay.īut this ancestral practice of eating clay has several facets. Pica is considered a symptom of iron deficiency anemia. This can be sand, cigarette ash, or even gasoline. When one develops pica, one is seized with an irresistible urge to consume non-food items. 1) Clay Consumption and Pica DisorderĮating clay is often associated with pica, which is a mental disorder. It is also an extremely ancient practice, found in several peoples around the world. Why do I want to eat clay? Is it a disease? A syndrome? Or a sign of an urgent metabolic need? Is it a danger? Is it good to eat green clay during pregnancy? And finally, how can I stop eating clay? I.

Pica syndrome during pregnancy