Toddlers usually start exploring things very soon and sometimes put non-food items in their mouths. This behavior is called pica, may be a sign that the child has a developmental, behavioural, emotional, nutritional or health problem.
Eating dirt can contribute to gastric pain and occasional bleeding. It can also increase the risk for infection since dirt can be contaminated with animal feces or urine and other potentially harmful substances.
According to researchers the reason behind pica is deficiency in iron, zinc, or another nutrient may be associated with pica. Dieting and malnourishment can also lead to pica, eating nonfood items may help you feel full.
Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis suggests that a simple multivitamin supplement might be effective treatment in some cases.
PNN/Agencies