New Delhi: Celiac is a long-term health condition that majorly affects the gastrointestinal tract mostly in children. It is a disease that is caused by the gut’s aversion to dietary gluten which is present in products of wheat, grain, barley and rye. The condition is caused due to consuming gluten which incites the immune system and leads to inflammation.
Dr Aditya Kulkarni, Dr Aditya Kulkarni, Associate Consultant in Pediatric Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Narayana Health SRCC Children’s Hospital shared with News9“If a child is diagnosed with celiac disease, consuming gluten will incite his or her immune system to attack the lining of the small intestine leading to inflammation of the villi, which are small finger-like projections on the intestinal walls and are usually responsible for absorption of nutrients.”
Who all are prone?
“Celiac disease has no conclusive archaeology although it is thought to have a hereditary element. Children from families with celiac disease or other autoimmune illnesses like diabetes mellitus, rheumatoid arthritis and hypothyroidism are at greater risk,” said Dr Kulkarni.
Celiac disease can also be triggered following the course of events like surgeries, pregnancy, or even severe stress.
According to Dr Kulkarni, “Though Celiac disease is basically an ailment of the small intestine, it has many implications. It is known that malabsorption of nutrients results in growth stunting, inefficient mineralisation of bones leading to softening and anaemia as well as delayed sex maturation.”
Nutrition and Celiac disease
Nutrient deprivation and chronic inflammation also impact certain additional organs, including the liver, skin, and brain. Some children can also have symptoms, including, but not limited to, chronic diarrhoea, abdominal pain, bloating, fatigue, or irritability.
Dr Kulkarni said, “Celiac disease management includes a gluten free diet & providing adequate nutrients to account for any coexisting deficiencies. Timely identification of this condition and implementation of this diet will halt the occurrence of residual symptoms making it possible for one to be healthy and active. There is a need for pediatricians and dieticians to be monitoring children with celiac disease regularly to manage their growth and development.”
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