Pica, also known as oceloplasty, is an eating disorder that involves consuming foods that aren’t regarded as edible. In addition, these foods don’t contain significant amounts of nutrients. (But eating foods or drinks that have little or no nutrient value is not always a symptom of pica, either.) A person with pica might suffer from various cravings for any of the below-mentioned non-nutritional items:
Many people may suffer from pica eating disorder because of iron deficiency. This condition is known as hemochromatosis and can cause serious harm to a person’s health. It is characterized by an excess of iron in the blood, leading to an increased risk of anemia. Anemia is characterized by pale, red or brownish skin; fatigue; reduced energy levels; and, in extreme cases, even death. People suffering from anemia are more likely to crave junk foods, which are typically low in iron.
Another common reason why pica eating disorder develops is due to the lack of B vitamins in a person’s body. B vitamins are particularly important for people who want to lose weight, especially because they are known to inhibit the development of appetite-suppressing behaviors such as overeating and compulsive hair pulling. Therefore, if you’re suffering from this disorder, it is vital that you take supplements that contain vitamin B3. These vitamin supplements, furthermore, should be taken in conjunction with other recommended vitamins and minerals.
One of the more notable conditions associated with pica eating disorder treatment is depression. Depression is often characterized by feelings of worthlessness, and guilt, along with a marked decrease in one’s social network. Individuals with depression are more likely to engage in compulsive behavior that includes self harm. Sufferers should seek treatment for this mental health condition alongside any additional efforts aimed at overcoming this eating disorder.
Some experts believe that pica eating disorder also has to do with the way your body releases chemicals known as neuropeptides. Neuropeptides help regulate your appetites by causing your stomach to secrete hormones such as vasodilators, gastric acids, and peptidoglycans. Abnormal amounts of neuropeptide chemicals may indicate a psychological or emotional issue that is contributing to your weight problems. Neuropeptides are generally released when a person feels emotionally stressed, worried or anxious. In addition to neuropeptides, a depressed person may also have a lower amount of serotonin. Serotonin is considered one of the body’s “happy hormones,” and its reduced level may contribute to the development of cravings.
Dietarily, those who suffer from pica eating disorder are advised to eliminate non-nutritional items from their diet. This would include sugars and other “empty” carbohydrates, and processed foods, which have been stripped of beneficial nutrients. A good nutritional plan would include plenty of vegetables, lean meats, and whole grains. It is also important to avoid highly processed foods, fried foods, and dried products. Instead, focus on eating natural, whole foods that contain high nutritional value, such as fresh fruits and vegetables. Including fish in your diet may also help to reduce dietary deficiency.
Aside from eating disorders, pica eating disorder can also include symptoms such as weight gain, body odor, and body hair loss. Weight gain is caused by an increased need to process food. In other cases, however, it can be caused by the body’s attempt to increase the number of calories it can process. Body odor is usually caused by the reduction of sweat-secreting glands. In some cases, body hair loss may be an early sign of an underlying eating disorder.
Pica eating disorder is common among autistic (ASD) and non-autistic young children. young autistic children often suffer from a number of symptoms including tantrums, temper tantrums, adjustment problems, and communication issues. Many times, those suffering from autism may seem different due to the severe behavioral challenges they face. While autistic children may show some behavioral similarities, they also exhibit very different traits. Therefore, in order for parents to be able to diagnose autism in their young children, a thorough medical and psychiatric exam is needed.
