The effect of calabash chalk on the gastrointestinal motility and transit time of male albino Wistar rat

Background: Calabash chalk, a naturally occurring mineral, is widely consumed in many African countries for various purposes, including pleasure, medicinal use, and regular diet. Pregnant women commonly use it to alleviate nausea. However, research has shown that consuming this geophagic material poses several health risks. This study aimed to investigate the effects of Calabash chalk on gastrointestinal motility and transit time. Method: 10 male albino Wistar rats weighing between 150 and 170 g were randomly assigned to two groups. Group A served as the control and received standard animal feed and water, while Group B received animal feed, water, and 1.3 g/kg body weight of Calabash chalk orally. Both groups were treated for 21 days before being sacrificed. The intestinal motility and transit time were then assessed. Result: The results showed a significant increase (p < 0.01) in ileal smooth muscle contraction in the test group following the administration of graded doses of acetylcholine (10^-8, 10^-7, and 10^-6) compared to the control group. Additionally, a significant increase (p < 0.001) was observed in the test group with acetylcholine at 10^-5, although there was a significant decrease (p < 0.05) at higher concentrations. The administration of atropine also resulted in a significant increase (p < 0.05) in intestinal motility in the test group. Furthermore, there was a significant decrease (p < 0.05) in transit time in the test group compared to the control group. In contrast, no significant difference (p > 0.05) was observed in the total length of the small intestine between the two groups. Conclusion: The administration of Calabash chalk significantly increased small intestinal motility and decreased transit time. These effects may lead to gastrointestinal irritation, malabsorption of nutrients, and digestive inefficiency. Given the potential health risks associated with Calabash chalk, it is not advisable for regular consumption mainly due to its adverse effects on the gastrointestinal system.