Following a gluten free diet is often enough to alleviate symptoms in those with celiac disease. Celiac disease is a digestive disorder that causes damage to the small intestines resulting discomfort and decreased absorption of vital nutrients. For young, growing children, doctors often recommend a thorough medical screening for conditions associated with the vitamin deficiencies seen in those with celiac disease. A new study found that diet alone may be enough.
One of the major nutrients poorly absorbed in children with celiac disease is calcium. Calcium deficiency can cause osteopenia, or the decrease in bone mass due to impaired adsorption of the mineral. Nearly 35-85% of the osteopenia cases result in osteoporosis. Although these conditions often occur later in life, children with undiagnosed celiac disease can present with symptoms early on.
Examinations such laboratory tests, x-rays, and dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) are often prescribed as a means of monitoring the malfunctions in calcium metabolism associated with celiac disease prior to initiation of treatment, such as a gluten free diet. Such extensive exams were once reserved for adults but are now frequently recommended by physicians for children as well.
The study, by the Pediatric Clinic of the
The study’s findings provide invaluable insight for pediatricians allowing them to put more emphasis on dietary regime as opposed to prescribing unnecessary exams for celiac children thus reducing a child’s exposure to radiation. Other markers of bone health were also recorded during the study of 58 celiac children including serum calcium, phosphorous, and parathyroid hormone (PTH). Researchers note impaired bone mineralization in celiacs is often the result of concurring issues such as compromised calcium and vitamin D absorption as well as chronic inflammation. The study found that a strict adherence to a gluten free diet was enough to solve any bone issues occurring with celiac disease in a relatively short period of time.
Tags: celiac
