concepts
eating disorders
feeding and eating disorders of childhood
medical conditions
Pica is the recurrent craving or consumption of nonnutritive items. The name was reportedly introduced in the 6th century by Aetius of Amida, a Byzantine physician, in reference to the magpie—pica pica—known for its propensity to gather all sorts of objects, albeit to build its nest not to consume as food. [Source: Encyclopedia of Social Deviance; Pica]
pica