Eating your nails can expose you to harmful bacteria and lead to potential health issues. Underneath fingernails is a breeding ground for various germs, including bacteria like salmonella and E. coli, as well as those that cause the common cold. When you bite your nails, these bacteria can enter your mouth and potentially cause infections in your stomach.
Potential Health Risks
| Risk | Description |
|---|---|
| Bacterial Infections | Salmonella and E. coli can cause serious stomach infections, leading to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. |
| Common Cold | Germs that cause colds can be transmitted through nail-biting, increasing your risk of getting sick. |
Why are fingernails so germy?
- Fingernails come into contact with various surfaces throughout the day.
- This exposure makes them ideal for collecting germs and bacteria.
- The area under the nail is particularly susceptible to harboring these harmful agents.
Practical Insights and Solutions
- Awareness: Be mindful of when and why you bite your nails. Recognizing these patterns can help in preventing the habit.
- Alternatives: Consider using stress balls, or similar objects, when you feel the urge to bite your nails.
- Nail Care: Keep your nails trimmed and clean to minimize the buildup of germs.
- Bitter-Tasting Polish: Use a bitter-tasting nail polish specifically made to discourage nail biting.
- Professional Help: If the habit is difficult to break, consider talking to a doctor, or therapist.
In summary, eating your nails introduces a variety of germs into your system that could cause infections.
