Pica Disorder

What Is Pica Disorder?

Pica is an eating disorder where a person repeatedly eats things that are not food. This might include soil, chalk, paper, paint chips, plaster, soap, or other non-nutritive substances. The behaviour is persistent and significant, not a one-off incident or momentary curiosity.

For a diagnosis of pica, clinicians look at repeated behaviour over time and its impact on daily life. The pattern also needs to be inappropriate for the person's age and development. Most young children put things in their mouths as part of normal exploration, so pica is typically only diagnosed in children over the age of two.

Pica often goes unrecognised because people feel ashamed or worried about being judged. This stigma can make it harder to ask for help, but reaching out to a healthcare professional is a positive step that opens the door to effective support.

What Causes Pica?

The exact causes of pica are not fully understood. Research suggests several factors may play a role, and these can vary from person to person.

Nutritional deficiencies, particularly iron or zinc deficiency, have been linked to pica in some cases. However, the substances people with pica choose to eat rarely contain the nutrients they lack. The relationship between deficiency and pica remains complex, and researchers continue to investigate how biological, psychological, and environmental factors interact to drive the behaviour.

Other possible factors include:

  • Developmental conditions such as autism or learning disabilities
  • Mental health conditions including anxiety and obsessive compulsive disorder
  • Stress or emotional difficulties
  • Cultural or family practices in some communities

In many cases, no single cause can be identified. The compulsion to eat non-food items can feel overwhelming, even when the person knows the behaviour is unusual or potentially harmful.

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Who Is Affected?

Pica is often discussed in relation to children, pregnant women, and people with developmental conditions, but the disorder can affect anyone across a diverse range of backgrounds and circumstances.

In children, pica may emerge alongside developmental delays or autism spectrum conditions. It can also occur in children without any underlying condition. Parents and carers may notice unusual eating habits during mealtimes or find evidence of non-food items being consumed.

Pregnant women sometimes develop strong cravings for non-food substances such as clay, chalk, or ice. These cravings can be intense and difficult to resist. Many women feel embarrassed about the behaviour and avoid mentioning it to midwives or doctors, which can delay support.

Adults without pregnancy or developmental conditions may also experience pica. In these cases, the disorder may be linked to mental health difficulties or significant stress.

Risks and Getting Help

Eating non-food substances can cause serious health problems. Depending on what is consumed, complications may include poisoning from toxic materials such as lead paint, bowel obstructions, dental damage, infections, and nutritional problems.

If you or someone you know may have pica, speaking to a GP is a sensible first step. A doctor can check for underlying nutritional deficiencies, assess for related conditions, and refer to appropriate specialists if needed. This might include a dietitian, psychologist, or psychiatrist depending on the circumstances.

Treatment approaches vary based on individual needs. While addressing nutritional deficiencies can form part of management, the core focus typically involves behavioural therapies, particularly for children or those with developmental conditions, alongside support for any underlying mental health difficulties.

Beat, the UK's eating disorder charity, offers information and a helpline for people affected by eating disorders including pica. You can contact them on 0808 801 0677. Your GP can also direct you to local NHS services for specialist assessment and ongoing care.