Effects of eating clay soil. Eating dirt may not always cause harm, but it could contribute to a number of health concerns. But too much is never a good thing given the health risks. Geophagy is the habit of consuming clay soil such as chalk or kaolin. Oct 4, 2023 · Geophagia is the official term for craving and eating dirt, including earth, soil, or clay. Eating dirt may relieve gastrointestinal pain for some people, but it can also cause health problems 6 days ago · When clay is ingested, it can interact with the digestive system, potentially altering the pH levels, gut bacteria, and even the body’s absorption of nutrients. Parasite and bacterial infections: Clay and soil may contain eggs of parasites (such as worms) and bacteria like Clostridium tetani, increasing the risk of infections and diseases, especially in children [1] [3]. Aug 20, 2019 · Not being able to find or afford a specific type of soil or clay can also lead to distress. Terramin also says clay protects the body from aging and disease. One of the main components of clay is montmorillonite, a type of clay mineral that has been shown to have absorptive properties. .