Pica is an eating disorder characterised by the persistent and compulsive consumption of non-food substances that offer no nutritional value. This can be distressing behaviour to experience or observe, and that’s why we’re here to help.
If you are concerned that you or a loved one may have developed Pica, you are not alone. At ABBI Clinic, we provide expert eating disorder treatment and support, and we’ve put together this blog to cover everything you need to know about Pica. From common symptoms to potential treatment plans, we’ve got the information to help you seek the support you deserve.
What are the symptoms of Pica eating disorder in adults?
Recognising the signs of eating disorders is one of the most important steps of recovery. The primary symptom of Pica is the recurrent consumption of non-food items, though the substances consumed can vary widely from person to person. Common examples include:
- Soil or dirt (geophagia)
- Ice (pagophagia)
- Chalk, plaster, or clay
- Hair or wool (trichophagia)
- Paper, cardboard, or wood
- Soap, detergent, or cleaning agents
- Glass, plastic, or metal objects
- Paint chips or peeling wallpaper
In more extreme cases, Pica may involve cravings for more dangerous substances such as faeces, ash, or sharp objects.
What is the cause of Pica?
We know that understanding why a condition like Pica occurs can help both you and your loved ones process the recovery journey. While the exact cause of Pica is not fully understood, it is believed to result from a combination of some of the following psychological, cultural, nutritional, and biological factors.
Nutritional Deficiencies
Pica has been associated with iron or zinc deficiencies, both of which are particularly common in pregnant women and people with anaemia. The body’s craving for non-food substances could potentially be a misguided attempt to obtain missing nutrients.
Developmental Disorders
Individuals with autism, intellectual disabilities, or other developmental conditions are at a higher risk of developing Pica. This can be associated with difficulties managing impulses and stress.
Psychological Factors
Conditions such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), stress, or trauma are associated with the development of Pica. Consuming non-food substances may provide temporary comfort from intrusive thoughts or distressing impulses.
Pregnancy
Hormonal changes and nutritional demands during pregnancy have been linked with temporary cases of Pica.
How is Pica diagnosed?
Pica is an eating disorder that can affect anyone, though it most commonly affects children, pregnant women, and individuals with developmental disorders. If you’re wondering whether you or a loved one is likely to be diagnosed with Pica, here are the criteria that must be met:
- Persistent eating of non-food substances for at least one month.
- The behaviour must be inappropriate for the individual’s developmental level.
- The behaviour must not be part of culturally accepted practices.
- If the behaviour occurs in the context of a developmental disability or medical condition, it must be severe enough to warrant independent clinical attention.
How does Pica impact health and wellbeing?
Like other eating disorders, Pica can affect psychological wellbeing, causing intense feelings of shame, anxiety, and social stigma. It can also severely impact health, posing physical risks such as:
- Gastrointestinal complications: Consuming sharp objects, plastic, or metal can cause internal injuries, blockages, or perforations.
- Poisoning: Eating substances like paint chips, which may contain lead, can result in heavy metal poisoning.
- Infections: Soil and other organic materials can harbour harmful parasites or bacteria that cause infections.
- Dental damage: Chewing hard objects can damage teeth or gums.
- Nutritional Imbalances: Pica can interfere with proper nutrition by replacing essential food intake.
- Developmental delays: In children, prolonged Pica can impact cognitive and physical development.
What does Pica eating disorder treatment involve?
Our treatment programmes take a flexible, personal, and multidisciplinary approach to treating eating disorders such as Pica. Depending on your unique needs, your Pica treatment may involve working with medical professionals, mental health experts, and/or nutritionists using some of the following approaches.
Nutritional intervention
Addressing underlying nutritional deficiencies, such as anaemia, through dietary changes or supplements can play an important role in addressing a common cause of Pica.
Behavioural therapy
Individual therapies such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) are often effective in helping individuals identify and change harmful eating thoughts, beliefs, and behaviours that underpin eating habits associated with Pica.
Pica: FAQs
When should you see a doctor about Pica?
If you think you’ve identified some of the symptoms of Pica, either in yourself or a loved one, it can be daunting. We strongly recommend seeking medical advice or getting in touch with us at ABBI Clinic if the behaviours associated with Pica persist for longer than a month or begin causing harm to your body or daily life.
It is especially important to seek immediate medical support if you suspect that these behaviours have caused poisoning, gastrointestinal problems, or an infection.
How can parents help prevent Pica?
Given the increased risk of Pica affecting children and the developmental implications the condition can have, it’s natural for parents to seek ways to support their children away from Pica-related behaviours. Some of the simplest and most effective preventative steps include:
- Monitoring children’s eating habits to ensure they aren’t avoiding edible foods
- Providing age-appropriate toys and playing environments that don’t encourage the eating of non-foods
- Speaking with a paediatrician if you notice persistent behaviours associated with Pica
Is Pica linked with autism?
Research shows that there is a significant association between neurodivergence and eating disorders. Such a connection does exist between Pica and autism, with case studies suggesting that the consumption of non-food items can become a method of self-soothing or relieving anxiety.
At ABBI Clinic, our treatment approach is fully informed by the PEACE Pathway (Pathway for Eating Disorders and Autism developed from Clinical Experience), ensuring we can fully appreciate the importance of autism in treating Pica and make our support as tailored and supportive as possible.
Access Pica Eating Disorder Treatment at ABBI Clinic
If you suspect that you or a loved one might be demonstrating the behaviours and signs of Pica described in this article, we are here to help you seek the support you need. Taking that first step can feel daunting, and we want to make it as straightforward as possible.
Fill in the form below, or call us, and we’ll guide you through the next steps.
