Harden Elkington
Eating paper may seem like a strange behavior that defies common sense, but it is surprisingly common.
It can be seen in young children or adults with mental health issues, and even some healthy individuals may occasionally partake in this seemingly bizarre behavior.
In most cases, eating paper poses little to no threat to an individual’s health, although there are some potential risks associated with it.
This article will explore what could happen if you eat paper and provide a few tips on how to prevent this behavior from occurring.
What could happen if you eat paper?
There are several potential consequences that could arise from eating paper. The most common of these include:
Potential health risks
Eating paper can lead to digestive issues such as nausea, vomiting, and constipation.
It can also cause damage to the esophagus or intestines if pieces of paper are large enough to become lodged in these areas.
Additionally, some varieties of paper can contain toxins that could be absorbed into your system when ingested.
In rare cases, eating paper may even cause a bezoar, which is a hard mass that forms in the stomach and can be dangerous if left untreated.
Nutrient deficiencies
Ingesting paper can lead to nutritional deficiencies since it does not provide any beneficial nutrients to your body.
Consuming large amounts of paper can also cause a decrease in appetite, which can lead to malnutrition and other health issues.
Additionally, the paper may interfere with the absorption of essential vitamins and minerals, further reducing an individual’s overall nutrient intake.
Potential choking hazards
The biggest risk of eating paper is that it can become lodged in the throat and cause choking.
In some cases, pieces of paper may even become stuck in the airways, preventing oxygen from reaching the lungs and leading to serious health issues.
It’s important to be aware of this risk and to take the necessary precautions to prevent choking when eating paper.
Digestive discomfort and bloating
Eating paper can lead to digestive discomfort due to its inability to pass through the digestive system easily. This can cause stomach pain, cramping, and bloating.
Over time, these symptoms may become more severe and interfere with an individual’s daily activities.
Additionally, paper particles can lead to an increased risk of developing irritable bowel syndrome, a condition characterized by abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits.
Infections and diseases
Eating paper may also increase the risk of infection or disease due to contamination.
For example, if the paper has been exposed to bacteria, viruses, or other pathogens, ingesting it may lead to an infection.
Additionally, some types of paper may contain toxic dyes or chemicals that can be harmful if consumed in large amounts.
Other potential side effects
In addition to the risks listed above, eating paper may also lead to other side effects such as fatigue, headaches, and difficulty concentrating.
Additionally, it can cause dental problems due to the abrasive texture of some papers.
Lastly, eating large amounts of paper may lead to weight loss as it is not a source of nutrition.
How do I get my child to stop eating paper?
There are several strategies that can be used to help a child stop eating paper. These include:
Providing alternatives
Providing alternatives is one of the most effective strategies for preventing and stopping a child from eating paper.
Offer your child healthy, nutritious snacks such as fruits or vegetables instead of paper.
Additionally, provide them with other activities that can help distract them from wanting to eat paper. This could include reading books, playing games, or engaging in physical activity.
Establishing routines
Establishing routines can help prevent a child from engaging in unhelpful behaviors such as eating paper.
Set up regular meal and snack times that the child can adhere to on a daily basis.
It’s also important to make sure that your child is getting enough sleep each night, as fatigue can increase their likelihood of wanting to eat paper.
Setting boundaries
Setting clear and consistent boundaries is another key strategy for helping a child stop eating paper.
Explain to them the importance of not ingesting paper and explain the potential health risks associated with it.
Additionally, discourage them from putting objects in their mouth that are not meant to be eaten.
Reinforce these boundaries by providing positive reinforcement when your child follows the rules and ignores the urge to eat paper.
Seeking professional help
If you’re unable to get your child to stop eating paper on your own, it may be necessary to seek professional help.
In this case, it’s best to consult with a mental health professional or pediatrician who can provide specific strategies and interventions tailored to your child’s needs.
Additionally, they may recommend medications or therapy sessions that could be beneficial in helping your child overcome their paper-eating habits.
Conclusion
Eating paper can lead to a range of health issues, such as digestive discomfort, infections, and diseases.
It’s important to be aware of the potential risks associated with ingesting paper and take steps to prevent it.
Some strategies that can be used to help a child stop eating paper include providing alternatives, establishing routines, setting boundaries, and seeking professional help.
With patience and dedication, it is possible to help your child stop eating paper and protect their health in the process.
