•  
  •  
 

Abstract

Abstract

Kaolin geophagia is associated with the relief of gastrointestinal distress, but it may also cause adverse health effects on the body. This study was designed to: assess kaolin composition; test if 129SvEv mice would consume kaolin and determine the consequences of consumption; and assess rotational stress modulation of consumption. Thirteen kaolin samples were purchased from Alabama and Georgia stores. Chemical and physical properties were characterized for each sample using a Munsell chart, pH meter, Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy, Transmission Electron Microscopy, Visible Near-InfraRed Spectra, and Inductively Coupled Plasma-Optical Emission Spectrometry. Kaolin was then given to mice as food supplements and consumption was determined by weight/volume consumed and recorded in 12 hour intervals. Soil physical/chemical, mouse hematological, blood chemical and kaolin consumption data suggested that kaolin contained various elements, and geophagia was not exacerbated by rotational stress.

Keywords: Kaolin, Pica, Geophagia, Hematology, Composition

COinS