Celiac Disease in Children: A Simple Guide for Parents
Celiac disease is a condition that can affect children when their body does not tolerate gluten, a protein found in some common foods like wheat.
Many parents may not know about celiac disease because its symptoms can look like normal stomach problems. If the problem continues for a long time, it can affect a child’s growth and health.
Celiac Disease in Children: A Simple Guide for Parents
Celiac disease is a condition where eating gluten causes a reaction in the child’s intestine.
Gluten is mainly found in:
- Wheat (गेहूं)
- Maida
- Suji/Rava
- Dalia made from wheat
- Many breads, biscuits and bakery foods
In a child with celiac disease, eating gluten can damage the inner lining of the small intestine. This can make it difficult for the body to absorb important nutrients from food.
What Are the Symptoms ?
Symptoms can be different from one child to another.
Common symptoms include:
- Frequent loose motions
- Long-lasting stomach pain
- Bloating or a swollen stomach
- Gas
- Vomiting
- Poor appetite
- Weight loss or poor weight gain
- Child looking weak or tired
- Short height or slow growth
- Pale skin due to anemia
- Constipation in some children
Some children may have only mild symptoms. Therefore, celiac disease can sometimes remain unnoticed for a long time.
eating gluten can damage the inner lining of the small intestine. This can make it difficult for the body to absorb important nutrients from food.
Why Does Celiac Disease Happen ?
Celiac disease is related to the body’s immune system and can run in families.
It is not simply an ordinary wheat allergy.
When a child with celiac disease eats gluten, the immune system reacts and can damage the intestine.
How Is Celiac Disease Diagnosed ?
If a child has symptoms that suggest celiac disease, a paediatrician may recommend blood tests.
Sometimes, further tests may be needed to confirm the diagnosis.
Important: Parents should not stop giving gluten before testing without discussing it with a doctor, because avoiding gluten before some tests can affect the test results.
Can Celiac Disease Be Cured ?
There is currently no medicine that permanently cures celiac disease.
But the condition can usually be controlled very well by following a strict gluten-free diet.
When gluten is completely avoided, the intestine can gradually heal and the child can start absorbing nutrients properly.
What Are the What Can a Child Eat ?
A child with celiac disease can eat naturally gluten-free foods such as:
- Rice
- Dal
- Fruits
- Vegetables
- Milk and many dairy products
- Eggs
- Meat and fish
- Corn (maize)
- Bajra
- Jowar
- Ragi
- Potato
However, packaged foods should be checked carefully because some may contain wheat or may be contaminated with gluten.
What Foods Should Be Avoided?
Children with celiac disease generally need to avoid foods containing wheat and other gluten-containing grains.
Examples include:
- Wheat roti
- Maida products
- Bread
- Biscuits
- Cakes
- Pastries
- Some noodles and pasta
- Some packaged snacks
Parents should check food labels carefully and follow the diet advised by the doctor or dietitian.
A Very Important Point for Parents
Do not assume that every child with stomach pain or loose motions has celiac disease.
There can be many reasons for these symptoms.
If your child has repeated stomach problems, poor weight gain, poor growth, weakness, or long-lasting loose motions, consult a paediatrician for proper evaluation.
Early diagnosis and the right diet can help a child grow normally and live a healthy life.
When Should You Consult a Paediatrician?
You should consult a doctor if your child has:
- Frequent or long-lasting loose motions
- Poor weight gain
- Poor height gain
- Repeated stomach pain
- Swollen abdomen
- Persistent weakness or tiredness
- Unexplained anemia
- Poor appetite
Conclusion
Celiac disease is manageable when diagnosed early and the child follows a proper gluten-free diet.
With the right treatment, diet and regular follow-up, children with celiac disease can grow, play and live a healthy life.
If you are worried about your child’s growth, digestion or repeated stomach problems, consult a paediatrician instead of treating the symptoms at home for a long time.
Dear Parents, If your child has Celiac Disease, don't worry. With a strict gluten-free diet, proper nutrition and regular follow-up, your child can grow normally and live a healthy, active life. Stay positive, follow the diet carefully, and consult your paediatrician regularly.
Dr. Swaroop Singh Paediatrician & NeonatologistSG Hospital, Fatehpur Shekhawati