Khaberni - A new trend in China has raised concerns among specialists and parents, following the spread of what is known as "plastic eating" across social networks.
The idea involves placing a layer of transparent plastic inside the mouth, then chewing food on it to feel its texture before spitting it out without swallowing, with the claim of achieving satiety and reducing calories.
However, there is no scientific evidence to prove the effectiveness of this method. Beatrice Verde, a specialist in eating disorders and intuitive nutrition and positive body image, confirms that what is happening falls under a disorder known as "pica," which is behavior involving the frequent eating of food or non-food substances, according to "Huffington Post."
Verde emphasizes that this practice "is not healthy under any circumstances, neither physically nor psychologically," warning of the risks of choking, malnutrition, and exacerbation of mental disorders.
Verde believes that the "diet culture" pressures teenagers in particular, by promoting an ideal body image that is difficult to achieve, creating a troubled relation with food based on guilt and deprivation. She adds that chewing food and spitting it out does not provide real satiety but mentally exhausts the body and deepens the obsession with calories.
According to a report published by Indulge, chewing food through plastic may expose the body to chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, and hormonal imbalances, in addition to the possibility of swallowing microplastic particles.
The Economictimes reported that repeating this behavior enhances anxiety related to food and fuels obsessive thoughts about weight.
According to experts, the accumulation of microplastics in the digestive system might lead to health problems and malnutrition.
Specialists warn parents about indicators that require attention, such as rapid weight loss, isolation, wearing loose clothing, or excessive preoccupation with diet and exercise.
If these signs appear, professional consultation remains a necessary step before the trend turns into a permanent disorder.
