The social stigma associated with pica can make it harder for an individual to seek help and receive appropriate treatment. Shame and stigma associated with picaĬompulsively ingesting non-food substances such as metal and bingeing on chalk will often lead to feelings of embarrassment and shame. Individuals with an eating disorder and addictions may also develop pica. Research shows that pica is more common among individuals with developmental and mental health problems such as autism, schizophrenia, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). This suggests that the idea that these cravings stem from a need for serum iron is an inadequate pathophysiological explanation for this phenomenon.” The authors continue: “Despite this, studies conducted on substances consumed by pica patients failed to show increased iron bioavailability among these substances. Many population-based studies have found a low level of serum iron/ferritin (and other micronutrients) among patients with pica.” Iron deficiency anaemia has also been implicated. Studies of psychological factors have reported an association between pica and stress, child neglect and abuse, and maternal deprivation. Alsaad wrote in a paper: “Many factors have been implicated in the etiology of pica however, no direct causality has been established. For example, in National Library of Medicine, Yasser Al Nasser, Erind Muco, and Ali J. Some scientists argue that pica is linked to iron and zinc deficiency however, this is most certainly not apparent in all cases. Scientists and health professionals argue that pica is linked to the nervous system it may originate as a coping mechanism to counteract stress or trauma, progressing into a conditioned, compulsive behaviour. It’s not yet clear why some people develop pica. Another type of pica thought to be associated with nutrient cravings is called geophagy, which involves eating earthy substances such as clay.” What causes pica? Iron and zinc deficiencies can trigger pica cravings. Very Well Health states: “People who are pregnant are known to have a form of pica that may be caused by a craving for certain nutrients (such as minerals found in dirt). Pica may develop during pregnancy, but symptoms often disappear postpartum. Some children may get a pleasurable feeling or sensory stimulation from eating non-food items.” Nutritional factors such as low levels of iron or zinc may be linked. Cambridge Community Services states: “It is common in certain groups of the population and occurs more frequently in children with learning difficulties. It is associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Rarely will a child be diagnosed with pica before the age of two. While it’s quite normal for very young infants to mouth or chew non-edible items such as grass, soil, crayons, keys or toys, a child with pica will be compulsively drawn to chewing metals and various non-food substances. ![]() ![]() Ĭhildren may develop pica alongside other co-existing neurodevelopmental disorders, including various eating disorders. ![]() Pica has no bearing on some cultural and religious practises around the world which may involve ingesting non-nutritional substances, as part of a cultural norm or tradition. People with pica may eat regular nutritious meals whilst simultaneously acting out by ingesting the potentially harmful items or substances. Large quantities are often ingested as part of the compulsive behaviour which canpose a serious health risk. ![]() From a medical stance, a person with pica will compulsively consume items such as ice, paper, soap, paint, chalk, soil, and blu tack. The term picaoriginates from the Latin for magpie, a bird known for voraciously eating food and non-food items alike.Īlthough pica is one of the most commonly observed eating disorders in individuals with autism and other developmental disorders (DD), it’s under-diagnosed and under-reported to medical practitioners. Pica is an identified eating disorder which causes individuals to compulsively ingest non-food substances which have no nutritional value. And when that energy can be circumvented in a different way, incredible things happen.” - Anna Sweeney, MS, RD, LDN, CEDRD-S What is pica? “Living with an eating disorder takes extraordinary fortitude.
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