ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Geophagia

Geophagia is when some people, often in certain cultures or communities, eat dirt, clay or other similar natural materials. It's like when you see a puppy eating dirt or grass because they're curious and exploring the world with their mouths. For some people, eating dirt is a common practice and they enjoy the taste and texture of it.

While it might seem strange to some of us, there are many reasons why people engage in geophagia. It could be because they believe it has healing properties and can help with certain health problems. Sometimes, people eat dirt simply because they enjoy the taste, like how you might enjoy your favorite candy or food. In some cases, geophagia can also be a result of a nutritional deficiency, where the body craves certain minerals that are found in dirt or clay.

It's important to know that eating dirt can be harmful, and children are especially vulnerable to its negative effects. It's not a healthy or safe food source because it can contain harmful bacteria or parasites that can make you sick. So, while the idea of geophagia might be interesting or intriguing, it's best to stick to safer and healthier food options that are meant for human consumption.
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