I Eat Chalk

[beenee]

I have given in to my cravings since I was 12 yrs old (I am 20 now). I regularly eat 'blackboard' chalk, dried clay and chipped white paint because I like the texture in my mouth when I bite into these. I understand the disorder is called Pica, but have not been able to find information on the eventual effects of this on my body. Can someone tell me what is most likly to happen if I continue to eat these materials? Any ideas on how I can control my cravings? Thank you.

[rekstout]

As far as I can see there is no immediate danger to eating chalk and such. Long term consumption could affect digestion/nutrition absorbtion capabilities or cause intestinal blockage. Paint flakes and such are considerably more dangerous - especially as white paint could contain lead amongst other toxic nasties. http://www.eating-disorder.org/pica.html