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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Have The Habit Of Eating Chalk. Is It Harmful?

Hi. I would like to know how harmful eating colored chalk is. I have been eating it for a few weeks now, and when I miss a day, I nearly go crazy! I then have to rush to a store to buy some. I especially prefer the colored one. I also always make it a note to drink 3-4 glasses of water after eating chalk. I can eat up to 3 sticks a day. So is it harmful to my health? Will it kill me or give me a horrible disease like cancer???

Gemma
Wed, 24 Apr 2013
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Psychiatrist 's  Response
Hi there ~

Eating chalk may be dangerous especially so if it is colored since it could have harmful chemicals. I would definitely ask you to visit your doctor to see if there is any issue with pica and have yourself investigated for calcium deficiency. I also think that you should start the replacement therapy with calcium and vit D if there is a deficiency. I hope this is helpful.

Take care adn have a lovely day!
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Psychiatrist Dr. Dr.Nehal's  Response
Hi,
thanks for using health care magic.
It is not good for health to eat colored chalk as color may contain harmful chemicals and chalk itself is not good.
You should check your Hemoglobin, Calcium and vitamin D level done.
If deficient, You should take the deficient stuff after consulting your doctor,
thanks
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Orthopaedic Surgeon, Joint Replacement Dr. Saurabh Gupta's  Response
Hello and Welcome to HCM,
Thanks for writing to us.
When you eat things that are not meant for human consumption, you have a condition called PICA. Chalk is not harmful in the sense that it can poison you. Because of it's consistency, however residue is easily ingested into the lungs and could possibly cause pulmonary distress.
If you find yourself wanting to ingest such things as chalk, talcum powder, etc. you are suffering from a mineral deficiency. You should have a complete medical evaluation. this is easily treated, so do see a doctor soon.
Hope this helps you.
Wishing you good health...
Regards.
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Have The Habit Of Eating Chalk. Is It Harmful?

Hi there ~ Eating chalk may be dangerous especially so if it is colored since it could have harmful chemicals. I would definitely ask you to visit your doctor to see if there is any issue with pica and have yourself investigated for calcium deficiency. I also think that you should start the replacement therapy with calcium and vit D if there is a deficiency. I hope this is helpful. Take care adn have a lovely day!