7 Side Effects Of Eating Soil On Kids

By Vanshika Gaur
22 Mar 2025, 15:00 IST

Playing with soil is natural for kids, but some may eat it due to a condition called pica (craving non-food items) or because of nutrient deficiency. However, consuming soil can be harmful. Here are a few side effects of eating soil. Tap to read!

Abdominal Pain

Eating soil can cause bacterial, parasitic infection, indigestion, and more, leading to abdominal pain.

Food Poisoning

The soil might contain fungi, parasites, and worms that can infect intestines, leading to food poisoning.

Vomiting

The soil can not be digested and its rough texture irritates the stomach lining, leading to nausea or vomiting.

Loss of Appetite

Consuming soil can cause digestive problems such as indigestion, bloating, and stomach irritation, leading to loss of appetite.

Constipation

Soil lacks fibre, blocks the intestine, and more making it difficult to pass the stool, leading to constipation.

Lead Poisoning

Soil with pesticides and fertilisers can get contaminated with lead that affects the brain, leading to lead poisoning.

Diarrhea

Soil is contaminated with various bacteria, causing digestive problems, and more triggering infections, leading to diarrhea.

Information Credits

According to PubMed, soil contains toxic bacteria which causes health issues such as diarrhea, food poisoning, constipation, and more. It is advisable to consult a healthcare professional if your kid is not feeling well after eating soil.