Craving non-food items
Overview
Craving non-food items, also known as pica, is a condition where individuals have persistent urges to eat substances that are not typically considered food, such as ice, starch, dirt, or paper. This unusual appetite disorder can occur in people of all ages but is most commonly seen in young children, pregnant women, and individuals with developmental disabilities.
Common Causes
This unusual craving often occurs when your body lacks essential nutrients, particularly iron, zinc, or other minerals. Pregnancy can also trigger these cravings due to increased nutritional needs and hormonal changes. Certain medical conditions affecting nutrient absorption, stress, or developmental factors may contribute to this urge. In some cases, it may be related to underlying health conditions that affect brain chemistry or mineral balance in the body.
Severity Levels
Mild: Occasional urges to chew or consume non-food items that you can easily resist or ignore. These cravings are infrequent and don't interfere with your daily activities.
Moderate: Regular cravings for non-food substances that are harder to resist, and you may occasionally give in to these urges. The behavior starts to concern you or others around you.
Severe: Persistent, overwhelming urges to eat non-food items that you frequently act upon despite knowing the risks. This behavior significantly impacts your health, safety, or daily functioning and requires immediate medical attention.
Medical Attention
Seek immediate medical attention if you or someone you know is actually consuming non-food substances, as this can lead to serious health complications including poisoning, intestinal blockages, or nutritional deficiencies. Contact your healthcare provider if these cravings persist for more than a few weeks or interfere with daily activities. Pregnant women experiencing these urges should discuss them with their doctor promptly, as they may indicate underlying nutritional needs or deficiencies that require treatment.
4k+ Collection Centres
90k+ Biomarkers Tested
Early Detection