Understanding the Craving for Soap Bubbles: Is It Safe?
At 23 years old and dealing with an iron deficiency of just 6%, I find myself with an unusual craving for soaps. While I've attempted to satisfy this urge with cold foam from Starbucks, which offers some temporary relief, it's currently the middle of the night, and a visit for that treat isn't an option. Earlier today, while washing dishes, I couldn't resist tasting the sudsy foam. I didn’t swallow any, but I've heard that ingesting soap can be harmful. I'm curious about the actual risks associated with sampling just a little from hand soap, especially given that I can opt for a fragrance-free version. This desire feels overwhelming, and I’m desperate to find a way to appease it. In a previous discussion, someone suggested that my anemia might be a contributing factor, but the cravings feel more intense than just that. I sometimes spend hours watching cleaning videos, and this only fuels my hunger for soap. Even the simple act of washing my hands has become challenging. I also struggle with several mental health conditions and plan to start taking an iron supplement and a multivitamin. However, I wonder if I should prioritize scheduling a psychology appointment sooner than the 24th, as this situation feels quite embarrassing and unsettling for me.
Answers (1)
2/14/2026, 6:50:36 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel unsettled by cravings for non-food items like soap, especially when dealing with iron deficiency and underlying mental health conditions. These cravings, known as pica, can sometimes be related to nutritional deficiencies and emotional factors.
Explanation
People sometimes experience cravings for substances like soap due to a condition called pica, which often occurs with nutritional deficiencies, particularly iron deficiency. The cravings can also be influenced by your mental health, which can create compulsive behaviors. Engaging in behaviors like watching cleaning videos may also intensify these cravings.
Ingesting soap can indeed be harmful. While small amounts may not cause significant harm, soaps contain various chemicals that can be irritating to the digestive system and could potentially lead to adverse effects, including nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
Next Steps
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Avoid Tasting Soap: As you've already recognized the potential dangers, it's best to refrain from tasting or consuming any soap products. Instead, consider finding alternative sensory experiences to distract or fulfill this craving, like using scented lotions or engaging in safe activities that bring you joy.
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Dietary Adjustments: While you're planning to start taking an iron supplement and multivitamins, ensure you incorporate iron-rich foods into your diet (like leafy greens, beans, lean meats, and fortified cereals) to help manage your iron deficiency.
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Schedule a Psychology Appointment: Given your mental health conditions and the intensity of your cravings, it would be beneficial to meet with a psychologist sooner if possible. They can help you work through these feelings and cravings in a supportive environment.
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Practice Self-Compassion: Remember, experiencing unusual cravings can be a sign your body or mind needs something. It's important to approach this situation with kindness towards yourself rather than embarrassment. You're taking steps to understand and address the issue, which is commendable.
If you notice that cravings worsen, or if you experience distressing symptoms, reach out for professional support. You're not alone in this, and help is available.
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