Hi there! I'm Dr. Sarah Jones, a pediatrician with over 10 years of experience working with children and families. One of the most common (and slightly embarrassing!) questions I get from parents is about their kids picking their noses and, even more surprisingly, eating what they find. Let's dive into the fascinating world of boogers!

What exactly are boogers?

Boogers, also known by the more technical term "rhinotillex," are dried nasal mucus. Your nose acts as an air filter, trapping dust, germs, and other foreign particles in a sticky substance called mucus. When this mucus dries out, it forms boogers.

So, is it harmful to eat boogers?

The short answer is, it's probably not going to do any significant harm in most cases. Here's why:

* Your stomach is tough: Your digestive system is designed to handle a variety of substances, including bacteria and other microorganisms found in boogers. The acids in your stomach are incredibly potent and break down most things that enter, including those sneaky boogers.
* Small amounts, small impact: The amount of mucus typically found in a booger is quite small. Unless your child is on a dedicated booger-eating spree, it's unlikely to have a noticeable impact on their health.

**However, there are some things to consider:**

* Spreading germs: While eating your own boogers might not directly harm you, it can increase the risk of spreading germs to others. If you touch your nose and then a doorknob, for example, you could be spreading those germs to the next person who touches that surface.
* Social implications: Let's be honest, nose-picking and booger-eating are generally considered socially unacceptable. It's important to teach children about good hygiene practices and how their actions might be perceived by others.
* Underlying issues: In some cases, excessive nose-picking or booger-eating could indicate an underlying issue, such as anxiety or boredom. If you're concerned about your child's behavior, it's always a good idea to consult with your pediatrician.

**What should you do if your child eats their boogers?**

* Don't panic: Remember, it's not the end of the world if it happens occasionally.
* Focus on hygiene: Gently encourage good handwashing habits, especially after being outside or touching their face.
* Positive reinforcement: Instead of scolding, praise your child when you see them using a tissue or practicing good hygiene.
* Distraction: If you notice your child picking their nose frequently, try to redirect their attention with a toy or activity.

The Bottom Line:

While eating boogers might seem gross, it's generally harmless in small amounts. The bigger concern is the potential for spreading germs and the social implications of the behavior. Encouraging good hygiene habits and addressing any underlying issues can help curb this common childhood behavior.

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But could the --bad-- childhood habit of picking your nose and eating it, actually be good for you? A biochemist from the University of Saskatchewan has theorized that nasal mucus, or as it's more commonly known, boogers, has a sugary taste that's meant to entice you to want to eat it.read more >>