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Pica

 

People with the disorder pica compulsively eat items with no nutritional value. In some cases, these people eat relatively harmless items such as ice. However, there are also instances where these people eat dangerous items such as metal. These can lead to severe complications, such as lead poisoning in the latter case and intestinal blockages. 


This disorder is most common in pregnant women and children. It is also seen in persons with intellectual disabilities. 


There is no single cause for pica. Pica can be caused due to an underlying deficiency in a nutrient. However, it can also be caused by dieting and malnourishment, where eating non food items is a last resort to feel full. 


Sources:

https://www.healthline.com/health/pica

https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/learn/by-eating-disorder/other/pica

https://theswaddle.com/what-is-pica-an-eating-disorder-that-involves-eating-non-food-items/



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