The way we measure pica also has limitations-most pica measurements only include a single item that fails to capture the specific frequency of pica behaviors and types of substances consumed (Dinkler & Bryant-Waugh, 2021). Some research supports that pica could be the result of nutrient deficiencies (iron deficiency and malnutrition are the two most common), whereas others suggest pica stems from hunger or from protective effects that pica might have to relieve short-term illnesses (NEDA, 2018 Young, 2011). It is unclear what causes pica and how pica behaviors may change throughout a person’s life. Behavioral and aversive treatment (treatment designed to change pica behavior by conditioning a person to associate eating a non-food item with a negative consequence or something undesirable) can help people with developmental delays understand which foods are good to eat and which are not safe to consume (Al Nasser, Muco, & Alsaad, 2022 Tygai & Sharma, 2022). Contingent reinforcement paired with discriminant training (example: presenting a positive stimulus when a person eats a nutritive food item, such as offering verbal praise or giving them a sticker) is the first-line treatment option for children who have pica (Moline et al., 2021). If a nutrient deficiency exists (and may be even is what is driving the pica), a person may need a supplement (such as iron or zinc). Treatment for pica focuses on decreasing accessibility to the craved or desired item a person wants to consume. Treatments exist to help someone with pica. Some research indicates people, especially pregnant women, consume this soil due to cravings or for its ability to soothe heartburn or morning sickness (Huebl et al., 2016).Ĭhalky composed of kaolinite with traces of quartz ingested (suckled) by a patient with pica. Clayey soil, a nutrient-dense soil, can be purchased at marketplaces in certain parts of Africa (Huebl et al., 2016). For example, a person who eats clay in Africa, where eating clay is more common, would not be diagnosed with pica (APA, 2013 Huebl et al., 2016). It is important to note that the substance a person eats must also be outside of cultural norms. Common cravings are dirt, paper, soap, string, cloth, paint, charcoal, starch, and clay (Al Nasser, Muco, & Alsaad, 2022 Tygai & Sharma, 2022). People report craving a wide variety of non-food substances and what they crave can differ based on a person’s age and the availability of the specific substance. People can desire or eat a variety of non-nutritive, non-food substances. By challenging stigmas and stereotypes, we ensure eating disorders are better recognized and treated.Ģ. A diagnosis of pica can only be given in a child who is at least two years old, and most commonly occurs in children ages 2-3 years old (Al Nasser, Muco, & Alsaad, 2022 Tygai & Sharma, 2022).Īs with all eating disorders, it is important to challenge stereotypes and biases around what a “typical” person with pica looks like. When I explained that I’m studying pica behaviors in children, she responded with: “My mind is blown! I’ve never heard of pica occurring in children-I’ve only ever learned about that happening during pregnancy.”Īlthough pica has been reported in up to 22-33% of pregnancies and postpartum, it can also occur in children, adolescents, and adults of any gender (Fawcett et al., 2016). Pica can occur at any point in life and impacts more than just people who are pregnant.Ī good friend of mine and registered dietitian recently asked me what I’ve been studying. This occurs when a person consumes non-nutritive, non-food substances for at least one month outside of cultural norms or another mental or physical condition (APA, 2013).ĭespite being less common in the general population, pica can pose serious health risks if a person eats something that could lead to gastrointestinal obstruction (blockage), serious dental issues (broken or eroded teeth), or even poisoning. When people think of eating disorders, they often list the three most common: anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge-eating disorder. One of her summer projects was working with mentors Sam Chawner and Nadia Micali on a study of pica in the ALSPAC cohort (Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and their Children). Natalie Papini is a 2022 CEED Summer Fellow.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |