Pica is an uncommon eating disorder, but can signal health troubles in those who suffer.
Pica is a word that originates from Latin, originally meaning magpie. Today, pica is a word used to describe a condition in which a person craves and/or eats foods that are not actually food.
Pica across the Globe
Pica isn’t limited to humans either. The eating of soil is widespread among many animals on every continent. Among wild animals, eating dirt seems to be a weapon in the ancient competition between plants and animals. Geophagy is used in the struggle between plant reproduction strategy and the animal desire for food.
Some of the non-food substances that may be ingested by an individual include:
- Dirt
- Clay
- Chalk
- Cigarette ashes
- Sand
- Soil
- Newspapers
- Paint
- Paper
- Plaster
- Rocks
Is Anyone at Risk of Pica?
People who may be at risk or have pica include those who are pregnancy, those who have poor nutrition or vitamin deficiency including those who live in poverty. Some families can have a history of pica as some ethnic customs include pica as can some cultures.
The Problems of Pica
There are many possible complications in those who suffer with pica. The eating of non food substances may interfere with the body’s consumption of normal nutritional food. And if there are ever any stomach pain in a person with pica, they should be taken to a hospital immediately.
- Anemia
- Constipation
- Intestinal infections or parasites from soil
- Intestinal obstruction
- Lead poisoning – especially in children
- Liver and kidney damage
- Malnutrition
- Mercury poisoning
Pregnant Women Often Have Pica
Pica has been very common among pregnant women. Pica in pregnant women commonly disappears after childbirth takes place yet it has been know to continue during the postpartum period. It has been said that Pica is a response to fill nutritional deficiency, such as low iron or calcium. In some parts of the United States the consuming of clay is very common and even sold in some states for consumption purposes. If you are pregnant and experience Pica, you should call and see your family doctor to discuss problems that could occur to you and your unborn baby.
Cases of Pica in Children
More often than not, pica is seen in children than adults. Children between 2 to 6 years of age are most at risk. Some children with pica have been said to be imitating a family pet who they have watched eat a particular item. Appropriate supervision of children and any dangerous substances should be placed well out of their reach. Some instances of pica are considered harmless however it never hurts to tell a healthcare provider to ensure the health of your child.
Pica in Those With Eating Disorders
Many of those who suffering from eating disorders commonly suffer from iron or other vitamin deficiencies. Pica can result from eating disorders in which food is not consumed regularly or kept in the body for long periods of time. In cases of anorexia, for example, it may be possible that a person suffering from anorexia would consume non-food items to ease extreme hunger.
Where poor self esteem is an issue, a person may believe they do not deserve to eat real foods. If you think you or someone you love may have pica, it is important to seek out medical attention and advice.