Does My Child Need a Gluten Free Diet?

Gluten is a protein found naturally in wheat, barley and rye and found in a variety of foods from crackers to baked goods and beyond. Gluten also is used in some foods to alter the taste and texture. It's not uncommon to find it in everything from deli meats to french fries. For most children, gluten is completely harmless, with two exceptions: Children with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity must follow a gluten-free diet.

Celiac Disease and Non-Celiac Gluten Sensitivity

For kids with celiac disease, even the slightest amount of gluten can spell trouble, signaling the body to release antibodies and damaging the small intestines. This makes it hard for kids to absorb the nutrients they need to grow and thrive. Kids with celiac disease may also experience gas, bloating and diarrhea whenever gluten is consumed. Some kids with celiac disease lose weight, while others gain weight. Untreated, celiac disease can lead to health problems such as anemia, disorders affecting the nerves and osteoporosis.

Non-celiac gluten sensitivity, or NCGS, has similar symptoms to celiac disease but the reaction to gluten is thought to be less severe. For example, when these children consume gluten, it’s not certain if they have the same level of intestinal damage.

If you suspect your child has celiac disease or NCGS, contact your health care provider. Before going gluten-free, get your child tested. In order for doctors to diagnose these conditions, your child should still be eating gluten-containing foods, otherwise test results may not be accurate.

When a Child Needs a Gluten-Free Eating Plan

Currently, the only treatment for celiac disease or NCGS is to avoid gluten, which can feel extremely restrictive and be difficult for a child to follow. Birthday parties, sleepovers, eating out and even school snack time can be tricky for these kids. To make teachers and other school staff aware of this special nutrition need, complete a 504 Plan. This form documents special diet needs for your child’s school. For example, the plan might require that school staff involved in the care and education of your child receive celiac disease training. The Celiac Disease Foundation website has a free sample plan.

Because so many foods contain gluten, restricting it can affect your child’s nutrition. For example, many foods that are fortified with vitamins and minerals, such as cereals, bread and pasta, contain gluten. These items are often good sources of iron and B vitamins. So, how do you make sure your child gets the nutrients needed for good health? Meet with a registered dietitian nutritionist. A dietitian can work with you and your child to develop a gluten-free, balanced eating plan. The good news is, for children with celiac disease, following a gluten-free eating plan helps improve symptoms and with proper planning can encourage healthy growth and development.