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A deficiency of zinc, iron, or other nutrients may lead to Pica in people, such as iron deficiency anemia can cause Pica in pregnant women.But, various researchers stated that the following are some possible causes of Pica: People have Pica disorder if they have the constant eating urge for the following non-food items for more than one month: What are the most common non-food items consumed by people in Pica? Children and adults with intellectual disabilities are at higher risk for Pica development. But sometimes, they can lead to grievous medical consequences.Īpproximately 10-30% of 2 to 6 years old children experience this compulsive eating disorder.
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People who have this disorder feel compulsive to eat non-food items and can’t put a stop to consuming them. Pica refers to prolonged consumption (more than one month) of non-nutritive and non-eatable substances when they are not a part of cultural activities or religious rituals. This habit is more common in children and pregnant women. Pica is a condition where a person craves certain substances that can’t be consumed in day-to-day life, such as clay or dirt. Let’s know more about this unusual behavior.
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Younger children (less than two years old) tend to put anything in their mouth that comes in their sight, which can’t be categorized under Pica disorder, as they frequently hold and ingest anything that comes into their hands. They are reluctant to drop the habit this can be due to Pica disorder. We have often seen many children and adults consuming non-eatable products.
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