We’ve all experienced that cringe-worthy moment—when children, whether our own or others’, indulge in the less-than-pleasant habit of picking their noses. Whether it’s during a family gathering or at a red light, the sight of someone, especially kids, exploring their nostrils can be both shocking and amusing. For kids, nose-picking is an art form, and discussing snot is akin to comedy gold. Just uttering the word “booger” can send my 5-year-old into fits of laughter. This fascination with bodily functions often has me puzzled until I see humorous signs like “salty nuts” and realize humor is subjective.
While I’ve dealt with various medical scenarios—from anatomy dissection to burn unit internships—I find myself utterly repulsed by the thought of my kids consuming their own nasal treasures. The mere sight has made me gag and question my parenting skills.
Typically, I maintain a calm demeanor when faced with minor injuries, but when it comes to booger-eating, I transform into a frantic parent. The gooeyness is just too much for me to handle! In the past, I’ve resorted to the classic “You’ll make yourself sick” warning when I catch my children snacking on their own snot. But is it actually harmful?
Surprisingly, it turns out that kids eating boogers is not only common but may actually be beneficial for them. Research from the American Society of Microbiology indicates that mucus can help prevent cavities, and a lung specialist from Austria, Dr. Peter Fischer, suggests that consuming dried nasal secretions can bolster the immune system. So, do I need to rethink my stance on this gross habit? Apparently, yes.
The natural curiosity and immune-building tendencies of children may mean that some exposure to germs, including the ones found in their noses, could be good for them. I’d much prefer they play outside and get dirty rather than watch them dig for boogers, but I suppose it’s all part of their development.
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In summary, while the act of eating boogers may horrify many parents, research suggests that it could actually strengthen children’s immune systems. We might need to adjust our perceptions of this common childhood behavior.