It is natural for parents to be concerned when their baby attempts to eat grass. Babies should not eat grass, as this exploratory behavior carries several safety risks. While a tiny, accidental mouthful is unlikely to cause serious, immediate harm, the primary concern lies in the physical properties of the plant and the contaminants it harbors. Understanding this behavior as a normal developmental stage allows caregivers to supervise safely and minimize exposure to potential hazards.
The Immediate Risks of Ingesting Grass
The most immediate danger posed by grass is the risk of choking, particularly with longer, thicker blades. Young children are still developing the coordination required to manage fibrous textures, and stringy materials are a recognized choking hazard for this age group. A blade of grass can be difficult to chew down into a safely swallowable size, increasing the chance of it blocking the small airway of an infant.
Once swallowed, the grass material itself is largely indigestible for humans. Grass is composed mostly of cellulose, a complex carbohydrate that the human digestive system lacks the necessary enzymes to break down. Swallowing a larger amount of grass can potentially lead to an upset stomach or, in very rare instances, a temporary obstruction as the undigested fiber passes through the digestive tract.
Dangers Beyond the Blade
The greater safety risk comes from the external contaminants attached to the blades. Many residential and public lawns are treated with herbicides, pesticides, and fertilizers, which are toxic chemicals that can adhere to the grass. Children are particularly susceptible to the effects of these chemicals because their developing organs, like the liver and kidneys, are less efficient at detoxifying and excreting pollutants compared to adults.
A baby’s exposure to these toxins is magnified because they breathe more air relative to their body weight and spend more time crawling on and touching treated surfaces. Furthermore, grass can harbor biological contaminants, including bacteria and parasites from animal waste. Ingesting grass that has come into contact with soil may also introduce pathogens like E. coli or various roundworm eggs, which pose a greater infection risk than the grass itself.
The Developmental Reason for Mouthing
The tendency for babies to put non-food items into their mouths is a standard stage of sensory-motor development. This oral exploration typically begins around three to four months of age and can peak between seven and twelve months. The mouth acts as a primary tool for learning, offering information about an object’s texture, shape, and size before the hands fully develop the necessary dexterity.
This mouthing behavior is a crucial part of developing oral motor skills, strengthening the muscles of the jaw, cheeks, and tongue needed for speech and safe eating of solid foods. It also serves as a self-soothing mechanism, especially during periods of teething discomfort. This natural curiosity in infancy is distinct from Pica, which is a persistent, compulsive ingestion of non-food items extending past early childhood.
Practical Steps for Prevention and Response
The most effective way to prevent grass ingestion is through constant, direct supervision when a baby is playing outdoors. Creating a designated safe play area, perhaps using a large blanket or play mat as a barrier, can limit access to the lawn while still allowing outdoor time. Caregivers should provide safe, non-toxic alternatives for mouthing, such as clean teething toys.
If a baby manages to ingest grass, the immediate response is to calmly check their mouth and remove any remaining pieces to prevent choking. If the baby begins to show signs of distress, such as difficulty breathing, persistent coughing, or turning blue, emergency medical help should be sought immediately. Parents should monitor for symptoms of illness, such as persistent vomiting, diarrhea, or unusual lethargy, which could indicate a reaction to contaminants or an intestinal issue.