I have a bad habit of eating slate chalks

Hello, guest.

It sounds like you may be experiencing pica, a medical disorder characterized by eating substances that are not typically thought of as food and that do not provide nutritional value.

The specific causes of pica can vary and may include:

1. Nutritional deficiencies: Some people eat non-food items because they're deficient in certain nutrients, such as iron or zinc.
2. Mental health disorders: Sometimes pica is a sign of emotional problems, such as stress, anxiety, or obsessive-compulsive disorder.
3. Cultural factors: In some cultures, eating certain non-food substances is considered a normal or curative practice and is not seen as harmful.
4. Pregnancy: Some women will develop pica during pregnancy.

The ingestion of these non-food items can have various health consequences:

• Chalk: While it might seem harmless since it's mainly made of calcium carbonate, consuming large quantities or over long periods can lead to digestive issues.

• Cornstarch: Eating large amounts can contribute to dental cavities and weight gain.

• Soap: This is particularly concerning because soap can cause symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and even electrolyte imbalances, depending on the ingredients.

Here's what you should consider doing:

1. Mental Health Evaluation: Consider seeing a psychologist or psychiatrist. If the cause is related to mental health or emotional issues, they can help provide coping strategies or treatments.

2. Safe Alternatives: If the texture is what attracts you, consider finding safe alternatives. For instance, if you like the feeling of cornstarch in your mouth, you might try foods that have a similar texture but are meant for consumption. It's still essential to address the root cause, but in the meantime, finding safer alternatives might reduce the harm.

3. Stay Informed: The more you know about the potential harms of consuming these items, the more motivation you might have to stop. For instance, knowing precisely what's in the soap you're eating might deter you from consuming it.

4. Safe Environment: Try to keep these items out of easy reach or avoid having them at home altogether. This might make it less tempting to consume them.

Hope this helps. If you have any more questions, feel free to ask.