Effects of Eating Eggshells on Your Stomach and Digestive System

Eating eggshells can affect your digestive system in several ways. Here’s an in-depth look at the potential benefits and risks:

Calcium Source

Eggshells are primarily composed of calcium carbonate, which can provide a source of calcium. However, the body may not absorb this calcium as efficiently as from other sources such as leafy greens or dairy products. This makes it less significant in a balanced diet unless consumed in large quantities.

Digestive Issues

Consuming eggshells in large pieces or without proper preparation, such as grinding them into a fine powder, can be difficult to digest. This can cause irritation or discomfort in the stomach and intestines. The hard, unprocessed shell can also be seen in stool, as it passes through the body undigested. While some individuals may be able to tolerate small pieces of ground eggshell, it’s generally advisable to grind them for better digestion.

Potential for Contamination

Raw eggshells may carry bacteria like Salmonella, which can lead to foodborne illness. Cooking eggshells can help mitigate this risk. Consuming raw eggshells increases the likelihood of ingesting harmful pathogens, making it a riskier practice.

Nutritional Absorption

While eggshells contain trace minerals, the body may not effectively absorb these if the shells are not processed correctly. Grinding them into a fine powder can help improve absorption, although it’s still less effective than consuming these minerals from conventional sources like leafy greens, nuts, and seeds.

Allergic Reactions

Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to eggshells, particularly if they are sensitive to egg proteins. This can cause symptoms ranging from mild itching to severe anaphylactic reactions. If you have a known egg allergy, consuming eggshells is not recommended.

General Safety

While small amounts of properly prepared eggshells are considered safe for most people, it’s usually better to obtain calcium and other nutrients from more conventional sources such as dairy products, leafy greens, and fortified foods. If you are considering adding eggshells to your diet, it’s wise to consult a healthcare professional for guidance.

Digestive Passage

It’s worth noting that consuming small pieces of eggshell may lead to them appearing in your stool after passing through the digestive system. This is more noticeable if the eggshell isn’t ground properly. Even if you don’t feel immediate discomfort, it’s still important to maintain good digestive health and avoid potential risks.