Your child has started eating chalk, soil and cement, there may be a deficiency of this thing, how to get rid of the bad habit?
- bySherya
- 28 Jan, 2025
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What is Pica: The habit of eating soil, chalk or cement can have a bad effect on the health of children. This habit can be got rid of with the right nutrition, doctor's advice and your wisdom.
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Why does a child eat soil: If your child is developing a habit of eating soil, cement, or chalk, then it is a matter of great concern. It is called 'Pica' in medical language. This problem is often caused by iron deficiency, zinc deficiency or nutritional imbalance. Such a habit in children can have a negative effect on their health. To overcome this problem, it is very important to take care of correct information and nutrition.
Why does the child eat chalk, clay and cement
Famous nutritionist Nikhil Vats told what is the real reason behind this habit of the child?
1. Iron deficiency:
Iron deficiency in the body can lead to abnormal eating habits in children.
2. Zinc deficiency:
Due to lack of nutrients, the child's body does not get the minerals necessary for normal development.
3. Mental or behavior related problems.
Some children develop such habits due to stress, anxiety or other mental problems.
4. Balanced Diet:
Due to lack of balanced nutrition in the diet of a child, he may get attracted towards other things.
How to get rid of this habit of your child
1. Feed iron and zinc based foods
Include iron and zinc rich foods in your child's diet. Eat iron based foods like spinach, beetroot, green leafy vegetables, pomegranate, jaggery and non-vegetarian food (like chicken and fish). Eat zinc based foods like pulses, beans, nuts and whole grains
2. Give healthy snacks:
Give children nutritious and healthy snacks like dry fruits, fruit cuts and homemade snacks to divert their attention from dirt and other harmful things.
3. Consult a doctor
If the child is constantly eating such things, then contact the doctor immediately. Get a blood test done to detect iron and zinc deficiency.
4. Keep a positive approach.
Explain to the child with love and patience that eating soil or cement is harmful for his health. Give him time to get used to healthy food.
Disclaimer: Dear reader, thank you for reading this news. This news has been written only to make you aware. We have taken the help of home remedies and general information in writing this. If you read anything related to your health anywhere, then definitely consult a doctor before adopting it.