3 Tips for Treating Pica Eating Disorder
Eating disorders come in many forms, and pica is one that often goes unnoticed. Pica is a condition where people compulsively eat nonfood substances like dirt, chalk, paper, or ice. While this behavior might seem unusual, it’s recognized as a serious eating disorder that can lead to medical complications, nutrient deficiencies, and emotional distress.
At Sanford Behavioral Health, we recognize the challenges of eating disorders and provide expert, compassionate care through our other specified feeding or eating disorders (OSFED) treatment program. If you or a loved one is struggling with pica symptoms, knowing how to treat pica eating disorder can provide a path toward recovery.
Who Does Pica Affect?
Pica is a condition that can affect people of any age or gender, including children, teens, and adults. According to the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA), here are some factors that can contribute to pica:
- Pregnancy: Cravings for nonfood items during pregnancy are only diagnosed as pica if the items are eaten and pose a health risk. Around 27.8% of pregnant women worldwide show pica behaviors, especially in areas with higher rates of anemia and lower education levels.
- Associated conditions: Pica is often linked to intellectual disabilities, autism, schizophrenia, OCD, trichotillomania (hair pulling), excoriation (skin picking), and sickle cell disease.
- Mental health connection: Studies show pica may also be connected to depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and a less positive body image.
Is Pica Common?
The prevalence of pica remains uncertain. Officially classified as an eating disorder in 2013 with the release of the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), As stated by NEDA, pica has been the subject of limited research, leaving much to be understood about the condition. The prevalence of this disorder remains uncertain due to limited research. One study estimates that around 1.1% of adults engage in recurring PICA behaviors, while another suggests that 5% of children aged seven to 14 exhibit similar patterns.
While pica may not be as well-known or commonly discussed as other eating disorders, it’s essential to recognize its severity and provide appropriate treatment.
Recognizing Pica Symptoms
Pica often goes unnoticed as people may feel ashamed and hide their behavior. Recognizing the signs and seeking help early is crucial. Common symptoms include:
- Persistent eating of nonfood substances for at least one month
- Ingesting more than culturally appropriate amounts without showing any nutritional deficiency
- Eating a single substance repeatedly (e.g., ice only)
The DSM-5 has expanded the definition of pica to include subcategories like “removed” forms (sucking or chewing on objects without intending to ingest them), “ingestion” (eating nonfood substances), and “compulsive behaviors” (e.g., hoarding, skin picking).
If you or a loved one is experiencing these symptoms, seeking professional help for proper diagnosis and treatment is important.
3 Tips for Treating Pica Eating Disorder
1. Identify and Address Underlying Causes
Successful pica treatment begins with understanding why the behavior is occurring. Since pica is often linked to physical or psychological factors, addressing the root cause can be an important first step in treatment.
- Nutritional deficiencies: If pica is caused by iron or zinc deficiencies, a healthcare provider may recommend supplements or dietary changes.
- Mental health support: Therapy can help people explore the emotional triggers behind their pica behaviors.
- Medical evaluation: A full medical assessment can rule out underlying conditions contributing to pica cravings.
At Sanford Behavioral Health, our multidisciplinary team of therapists, dietitians, and medical professionals work together to create personalized treatment plans that address the whole person—not just their symptoms.
2. Implement Behavioral Therapy Strategies
Therapy plays a key role in how to treat pica eating disorders by helping people develop healthier coping mechanisms and reduce compulsive behaviors.
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT): Helps individuals identify thought patterns that contribute to pica and replace them with healthier alternatives.
- Habit reversal therapy: Teaches people to recognize urges and redirect their behavior toward safer habits.
- Mindfulness and stress reduction: Practicing mindfulness can help reduce anxiety-related urges to consume nonfood substances.
With the right therapeutic approach, many people can gradually reduce or eliminate pica behaviors, improving their physical and emotional well-being.
3. Create a Supportive Environment
Support from loved ones and healthcare providers can significantly impact pica treatment. Since pica can be linked to stress, anxiety, or habit formation, having a structured and supportive environment can aid in long-term recovery.
- Family education: Loved ones should be aware of pica symptoms and triggers to help the person manage behaviors.
- Safe food substitutes: In some cases, transitioning to safer sensory alternatives (like chewing sugar-free gum or consuming crunchy foods) can help reduce cravings.
- Join a support group: Connecting with others facing similar challenges can provide encouragement and motivation.
Creating a supportive, judgment-free environment empowers individuals with pica to make healthier, more nutritious choices.
Call Sanford Behavioral Health and Find Healing with Our OSFED Treatment Program
Pica is a complex and often misunderstood eating disorder, but there is hope for recovery. With the right treatment and support, people can recover and overcome pica. Sanford Behavioral Health offers specialized treatment for OSFED conditions like pica. Our compassionate team is dedicated to helping individuals find healing and a healthier relationship with food. If you or someone you love is struggling with pica, please reach out to us today. Call us at 616.202.3326 or contact us online today!
