Remember licking envelopes? That’s paper, plus glue. The glue on envelopes and stamps is usually a harmless, tasteless gelatin. But the glue that binds a book together? That’s industrial-strength, and I strongly advise against snacking on your library book. You’ll get a mouthful of binder’s glue, and your reading group will look at you very, very strangely.
Why does my child eat paper? - How To Whiz A Kid
If you’re craving the texture of paper, you might actually be after cellulose. That’s the plant fiber paper is made from, and it’s the same stuff in celery, though far less delicious. It’s also used in some low-calorie foods as a cheap filler. So, in a way, eating paper is like eating a really, really dry, flavorless salad. Good luck getting that down without ranch dressing.
Pica: The Weird Medical Reason
If you find yourself craving paper regularly, don’t just shrug it off. This compulsive eating of non-food items has a name: Pica. It’s not a new pizza topping; it’s a medical condition. Pica is often linked to a nutritional deficiency, like a lack of iron or zinc. Your body gets confused and thinks, “Hmm, I’m low on iron. Maybe I should eat a filing cabinet?”
So, if you’re chowing down on cardboard boxes like they’re gourmet crackers, please see a doctor. They can check your blood levels instead of checking you into a padded room. It’s a surprisingly common issue, especially in pregnant women and children, who are also famous for eating dirt and pennies. You’re in good (if slightly crunchy) company.
Can Eating Paper Lead to Serious Health Issues? - Healthyhebbits
