Pica disorder is a psychological eating disorder characterized by the persistent and compulsive consumption of non-food substances that have no nutritional value. Individuals with pica may ingest a variety of items, including but not limited to, dirt, clay, chalk, paper, soap, hair or even metal objects.
This condition goes beyond the normal curiosity-driven pica behaviors occasionally seen in young children (such as eating items that they don’t yet understand they can’t eat) and extends into a more concerning, irrational compulsion that may persist into adulthood.
Why does pica disorder happen?
The exact cause of pica disorder cannot usually be explained, but several factors might contribute to its development. Each person’s experiences will manifest in this disorder differently, but knowing the more common causes are helpful when trying to identify pica.
Nutrient deficiencies
One of the most common hypotheses is that pica may be linked to nutritional deficiencies, particularly minerals such as iron and zinc. The body’s need for these nutrients might trigger cravings for non-food substances that may contain trace amounts of minerals. However, not all cases of pica are associated with deficiencies, and the relationship can vary between individuals.
Developmental factors
Developmental disorders, such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or intellectual disabilities, are often associated with pica. For individuals with these disorders, consuming non-food items may be due to difficulty distinguishing between edible and non-edible objects, sensory preferences or repetitive behaviors commonly seen in these disorders.
Mental health conditions
Pica is sometimes seen in conjunction with mental health disorders, such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) or schizophrenia. In these instances, the compulsion to consume non-food items may be related to the compulsive or distorted thought patterns characteristic of these conditions.
Psychosocial stressors
Stressful environments or traumatic experiences can trigger or exacerbate pica behaviors. In some cases, engaging in pica may serve as a coping mechanism in response to anxiety, stress or trauma.
Pregnancy
Pregnant women may experience pica as a result of changes in their bodies’ nutritional needs or hormonal fluctuations. The cravings could be linked to the body’s increased demand for certain minerals and nutrients during this period.
What are the signs of pica?
While each person who battles pica will display signs of the disorder in different ways, it’s important to know the more common signs to better understand the condition and be able to offer help to a struggling loved one if the need arises.
Craving non-food items
The hallmark sign of pica disorder is the compulsive consumption of non-food substances. These substances can vary widely and may include items such as dirt, clay, sand, chalk, soap, paper, paint chips, plaster, hair, cloth and even small objects like buttons or erasers. These cravings persist for a period of at least one month, distinguishing them from occasional or fleeting urges.
Repeated ingestion
It is not just the craving, but the repeated consumption of these non-nutritive items that characterizes pica disorder. An individual with pica will often go out of their way to obtain and ingest these substances, even forgoing their normal diet in order to do so.
Nutritional deficiencies
Because pica disorder involves the ingestion of non-food items, it often coexists with nutritional deficiencies, particularly one in iron or zinc. These deficiencies can lead to further health complications and may worsen the compulsive behavior.
Gastrointestinal problems
Ingesting non-food items can lead to a range of gastrointestinal problems, including stomach pain, nausea, constipation or diarrhea. Depending on the substance, it may cause blockages or injuries within the digestive tract, which require medical attention to address and treat.
Poor dental health
Eating hard or abrasive materials like stones or metal can cause significant dental damage, including worn enamel, chipped or even broken teeth. This can lead to tooth sensitivity and erosion, and therefore a need for extensive dental care.
Withdrawal
Pica can significantly interfere with an individual’s daily life. Consuming non-food items might result in feeling embarrassed or cause one to face social stigma, which often causes social withdrawal or difficulties in keeping up with regular activities including work, school and even family and social life.
Co-occurring mental health conditions
Pica is often observed in individuals with developmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorder, intellectual disabilities or in the context of mental health issues like OCD or schizophrenia. The presence of such disorders can sometimes help explain the inclination towards pica tendencies.
How is pica disorder treated?
Pica disorder is treated by addressing the nutritional needs of the individual, any physical illnesses that have resulted from pica-influenced behaviors and then the mental health conditions that are present. This might include changing factors in one’s environment — i.e. reducing access to non-food items that are often consumed — and seeking help from nutritionists, doctors and psychologists.
To get started in the process of healing, reach out to Seeds of Hope today to learn about our healing and recovery process for pica disorder. Call anytime at 610-897-0508 or fill out an online contact form to get in touch.
