It’s no longer a secret society. Dirt eaters, those with a fondness for feasting on earthy delights, are stepping out of the shadows.
Across the internet, these shameless soil connoisseurs are proudly promoting the supposed wellness and beauty benefits of chowing down on the ground. Gone are the days of hiding this practice – dirt is now being incorporated into some diets for its claimed benefits to the skin, gut, and immune system.
Leading the charge is fertility and hormone coach Stephanie Adler. On TikTok, she boldly declares to her followers, “Want to improve your child’s (and your own) gut health? Eat dirt!” In the background, a baby munches on a bit of dry mud, seemingly endorsing the message.
But what about dirt eaters with more discerning palates? For those who prefer a more refined approach, fear not! Edible dirt, typically in the form of ingestible clay, is now available online via platforms like Amazon and Etsy. These “ground gourmands” can indulge in designer dirt for prices ranging from $11 to $27, depending on quality and quantity.
One Amazon vendor touts their $11.99 edible red clay as an “anti-aging” solution, claiming it unclogs pores, tightens them, and balances sebum production for a healthier face.
Now, the idea of consuming dirt might seem strange, but recent research suggests there could be some truth to the supposed benefits. A 2019 study revealed that soil contributes to the human gut microbiome, playing a crucial role in its development and providing beneficial microorganisms. The researchers further suggested that incorporating more soil into one’s diet could potentially reduce reliance on livestock and dairy products, leading to a healthier digestive system.
This practice, known as geophagia, has historical roots. Experts have found evidence that humans have consumed soil for centuries as a supplement to nutrient-poor diets, for detoxification, and even for medicinal purposes. Previous studies have even suggested that dirt can help absorb body fat and improve skin health.
The University of Helsinki’s research adds another layer to the potential benefits. They propose that direct exposure to natural soil and plant-based materials could enhance microbial diversity, potentially preventing and treating immune system disorders.
Online dirt eaters echo these claims, reporting improvements in skin conditions and simply enjoying the unique taste of soil. Influencer @Muthan8ure, with over 113,000 followers, unabashedly declares her love for dirt, stating, “Red dirt – love it. And I don’t care what nobody says. Can’t nobody make me stop eating it.”
Whether dirt truly holds the key to health and beauty remains to be seen. However, one thing is clear: dirt eaters are no longer hiding their habit. They’re proudly proclaiming their love for the earth, one crunchy bite at a time.