Pica eating disorder non food
Common Questions and Answers about Pica eating disorder non food
eating
There is an eating disorder called 'Pica' which children and adults eat non-food objects. Pica occurs more frequently with children.
The causes of Pica are unknown, however, certain situations may increase the risk to it such as nutritional deficiencies of iron or zinc (the nonfood items craved usually do not supple the minerals lacking in the body), malnutrition (seen in underdeveloped countries where people will eat clay or soil), development problems (mental disabilities, and autism) and mental health conditions (obsessive-compulsive disorder and schizophrenia).
Eating non-food objects such as comet cleanser could be an eating disorder called “Pica”.
Is your son eating these items or trying to sooth? If PICA is what you suspect, that is a diagnosis that requires a psychological evaluation. There are dietary things that can play a role but often, there is no dietary gain in what they eat (extension cords). It is often a mental health issue and you would want a referral to a psychiatrist.
I'm happy to help in any way I can!
DO NOT EAT COMET!
Also, get your iron levels checked. Ice craving is a symptom of anemia.
I would first start with your family doctor/pediatrician as Pica is a psychiatric disorder that some children suffer. It involves eating things such as sand, dirt, and other things the rest of us are grossed out by. Occasionally there is an iron deficiency involved as well. But a child psychiatrist works with a child that has pica to help them. I would do this and if your child begins to eat hair, this is the most dangerous as it can cause a blockage. So, call your doctor soon.
Pip is right PICA is the name of this condition, google it and read through many sites that will give you as much info as any Vet can. I’m not sure if any treatments are available for this or not. Are you on Facebook or other social media sites...do a search and see if there are any groups dedicated to that ...than you’d find tons of help.
I will mention to you though 1/2 cup of kibble per day isn’t anywhere near enough for a 10 pound cat, I’d at least double that perhaps even triple....
I have recently been working with a client who has Pica. I have seen this disorder before and dealt with it. This client, however, is different. Anything that is found on the ground or floor will be placed into the clients mouth and eaten. The odd part is that the client will resist food on a plate or a spoon. Food that has been cooked is resisted.
Anyone who craves cornstarch or any other non-food items is said to have a condition called pica. Pica is sometimes an indication of a mineral deficiency or imbalance and sometimes anemia. Cornstarch is a corn derivative and is usually used as a thickening agent. It is non-toxic but can cause mineral deficiencies. Eating a large amount of cornstarch can paradoxically lead to anemia, ulcers, acid reflux, and mineral loss.
It's call Pica, when you crave things like that during pregnancy. Usually a sign you are lacking in something, so you need to call your doctor and let them know.
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