Learn More About Pica

Diagnostic Criteria

• Persistent eating of nonnutritive, nonfood substances over a period of at least 1 month
• The eating of nonnutritive, nonfood substances is inappropriate to the developmental level of the individual
• The eating behavior is not part of a culturally supported or socially normative practice
• If the eating behavior occurs in the context of another mental disorder (e.g., intellectual disability, autism spectrum disorder, schizophrenia) or medical condition, it is sufficiently severe to warrant additional clinical attention

Pica can be identified by observing the ingestion of substances that are nonnutritive. Some common nonnutritive substances ingested with pica are dirt, plastic, and wood items.

Pica can be caused in a few different ways. It is important to consult your primary care physician about pica to see if there is a physical or chemical problem causing symptoms.

Imbalances within the body can cause an unhealthy and unnatural desire for a substance, as the body attempts to replace missing nutrients.

Other causes for pica can be solely cognitive or emotional. At times, individuals can develop the eating of nonnutritive substances as a way to cope with life stress.

• Psychotherapy or talk therapy
• Working with your primary care physician to replace missing nutrients in your body – and to level out imbalances with chemicals or hormones.
• Self Help (Try Our Self Help Program)
• Working with Our Coaches