
If pica is associated with mental retardation or pervasive developmental disorder, it must be sufficiently severe to warrant independent clinical attention. Consider pica when the behavior is inappropriate to the developmental level of the individual, is not part of a culturally sanctioned practice, and does not occur exclusively during the course of another mental disorder (eg, schizophrenia). In children aged 18 months to 2 years, the ingestion and mouthing of nonnutritive substances is common and is not considered to be pathologic. Pica may be benign, or it may have life-threatening consequences. In some societies, pica is a culturally sanctioned practice and is not considered to be pathologic. Individuals presenting with pica have been reported to mouth and/or ingest a wide variety of nonfood substances, including, but not limited to, clay, dirt, sand, stones, pebbles, hair, feces, lead, laundry starch, vinyl gloves, plastic, pencil erasers, ice, fingernails, paper, paint chips, coal, chalk, wood, plaster, light bulbs, needles, string, and burnt matches.Īlthough pica is observed most frequently in children, it is the most common eating disorder seen in individuals with developmental disabilities. The definition occasionally is broadened to include the mouthing of nonnutritive substances. If you do not allow these cookies, you will experience less targeted advertising.Pica is an eating disorder typically defined as the persistent eating of nonnutritive substances for a period of at least 1 month at an age in which this behavior is developmentally inappropriate (eg, >18-24 mo). They do not store directly personal information, but are based on uniquely identifying your browser and internet device.

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Swap cake for wholegrain toast with jam or bagels.So if you find yourself craving sugary or high fat foods try to reach for healthier alternatives: Dried fruit may help to ease a sweet craving, while a bowl of unsalted nuts may satisfy a hankering for crisps.Įating regular nutritious meals is the best way to ensure your baby gets the nutrients they need for healthy development. A healthy approach is to look for healthier options.

If you’re craving bacon, for example, you may inadvertently consume high levels of salt 5. But these cravings usually disappear after you give birth 4.īe aware that some foods may come with associated risks. If you have gestational diabetes, you may crave sweet foods later in your pregnancy, which can worsen the condition. Pregnancy cravings come and go, and as your pregnancy continues you may find they become less intense.
