What Is Pica?

Pica is known as an eating disorder, where instead of eating foods, individuals consume things that carry no nutritional value, such as ice and other dangerous items, such as soap, dirt, paint, glue, and metal. Pica comes from the Eurasian magpie, a bird species known for eating unusual objects (Cleveland Clinic). Pica occurs primarily in children and pregnant women and is usually temporary.

This eating disorder is also prevalent in those who have mental health conditions, such as autism or schizophrenia. However, the consequences of consuming these items can lead to severe health conditions, such as tooth damage and lead poisoning. Because there are no tests for pica, simple bloodwork from a doctor can detect if an individual has low zinc or iron levels (Holm, 2023). Pica can cause other conditions: anemia, electrolyte imbalances, and constipation.

What Causes Pica?

Although there is no known cause of pica, research has shown that specific factors contribute to the development of this eating disorder. People with mental health conditions, such as obsessive-compulsive disorder, may use pica as a coping mechanism (Holm, 2023). In certain cultures, specific types of pica are common, such as eating dirt at El Santuario de Chimayó in New Mexico (Cleveland Clinic). Because pica occurs more commonly in children, they may use pica as a coping mechanism for dealing with challenging situations, such as abuse or poverty.

How Is Pica Treated?

Doctors can determine if individuals are experiencing pica through testing. Doctors recommend chelation therapy if individuals eat harmful items, such as paint chips (Holm, 2023). Individuals may engage with medical professionals in mild adverse and behavioral therapies to help them change their behaviors, avoid using non-food items, and develop better-coping mechanisms.

At BALANCE eating disorder treatment center™, we offer two FREE Virtual Eating Disorder Support Groups open to individuals seeking help and family and loved ones. The group provides a supportive forum where members can explore issues, including ambivalence about engaging in treatment, recovery, resources, and treatment options, and knowing when and how to take the next steps toward making change. RSVP for our next group here.