What happens when you eat boogers?
In this short article, we will answer the question “What happens when you eat boogers?” and share contextual information about boogers and what it is made of.
Can you picture eating your snot if picking your nose, which almost everyone does, is already regarded as an unclean habit? It can appear repulsive and unthinkable to perform it in public.
Even though it’s rare and even uncomfortable for some, the topic of whether eating nose snot is healthful still stands. Learn more by continuing to read.
What happens when you eat boogers?
Nothing happens, but this is not hygienic. We must first have a basic understanding of the nose to respond to this question. To be clear, the nose is the dirtiest organ in the body because it serves as an air filter.
That is, it functions similarly to a device that filters air to eliminate particles and dangerous microorganisms, keeping them from entering our lungs.
In this manner, the dirt and bacteria that were maintained there so as not to harm the lungs are what is left in the mucus that is trapped there. But nose snot serves many purposes than just housing bacteria.
In other words, it contains a tonne of defensive proteins that destroy and inactivate the viruses and bacteria that are present in the air that we breathe. Therefore, anytime we cough, sneeze, blow, or ingest mucous, this goo normally comes out. Yes, you’re right.
Some folks have a bad habit of eating their boogers. And if you’re curious about the bacteria that are consumed, here’s a spoiler: stomach acid kills them.
On the other hand, mucins, a class of proteins, make up nostril snot. They are also covered in sugar, which absorbs water and gives the mucus its sticky texture. As a result, the following proteins still present in mucus that activates its protective function are:
- B cells, create antibodies, which are small proteins that warn the immune system of the presence of germs and viruses.
- Lysozyme is an enzyme that kills bacteria and is also found in egg whites.
What does science have to say about eating boogers?
Of course, now that you know what boogers are made of, you might be asking if it’s okay to consume snot from your nose. and everyone can benefit from eating boogers.
This notion, that mucus can boost the immune system and protect the body from hazardous viruses and bacteria, appears to be supported by some scientific findings.
However, there is still little evidence to support the notion that ingesting nose snot has any advantages. The majority of studies on the subject, however, focus on the dangers of consuming snot.
As was mentioned before, nasal mucus traps the majority of germs and viruses that try to enter the body. Each snot might therefore include a variety of bacteria that are detrimental to the body.
Therefore, the following are some possible dangers of consuming boogers:
- infections
- Nose injuries and bleeding
- Nasal blockage
- Pain
Can eating boogers from your nose indicate a disorder?
Picking your nose can be a typical habit, but cleaning it obsessively and frequently is annoying. Rhinotillexomania is a condition that can seriously harm the nose.
Additionally, research points to the possibility that chronic rhinotillexomania can result in nasal tissue oedema and inflammation. Stress, anxiety, and other compulsive behaviours, including skin picking or nail biting, are frequently present with this illness.
Therefore, a person who frequently has the following symptoms should see a healthcare provider:
- Nosebleeds
- Breathing difficulties
- Infection or inflammation
Finally, therapy, medication, or a combination of the two may be used as a kind of treatment for booger eating. How to correctly educate kids on how to wipe their noses
The act of “cleaning the hall” might be connected to the current moment the child is living, which is something that parents and guardians must grasp. Children learn, for instance, by tasting the foods they place in their mouths during the oral phase.
During this time, they place food and other objects in their mouths and, if they like it, swallow them. However, it’s important to pay attention and keep an eye out to see if the attitude is accompanied by other, graver problems.
Parents should pay closer attention to whether their children are eating anything else except snot from their noses since it is more concerning. Holding a diaper or sucking on a thumb can also be considered a “smell,” as can placing a finger in the nose.
In these situations, it is advised to catch the children’s attention by emphasising that wiping one’s nose should only be done in private when bathing. Parents should also give instructions on how to discipline the act to teachers and daycare facilities.
Conclusion:
In this short article, we answered the question “What happens when you eat boogers?” and shared contextual information about boogers and what it is made of.
References:
https://www.healthline.com/health/eating-boogers#potential-benefits
