Gluten Intolerance Symptoms in Children

Gluten intolerance has now become a very common condition that children are suffering from. Gluten is a protein that is usually found in wheat and wheat products. Some bodies are unable to digest this protein, leading to gluten intolerance. Diagnosing and treating gluten intolerance in children is extremely essential, to prevent its symptoms from manifesting into adolescence and adulthood. Gluten is a component that is also associated with Celiac disease. Though the symptoms of gluten intolerance and Celiac disease may appear similar, there is a difference between the two. Gluten intolerance refers to a sensitivity to gluten, whereas Celiac disease is a gluten allergy. Moreover, Celiac disease is more serious than a gluten intolerance and can have severe effects on children.

Symptoms to Look Out For

Studies have shown that sensitivity or intolerance to gluten is often hereditary. As mentioned earlier, the symptoms of gluten intolerance those of a gluten allergy in children are almost similar. However, if children have a gluten allergy or Celiac disease, gluten in all forms must be completely eliminated from their diets. On the other hand, small amounts of gluten are suitable, as long as they don't manifest into serious symptoms. The symptoms to look out for in kids with gluten intolerance are:

• Weight loss
• Abdominal distension, i.e. bloating of the abdomen
• Mood swings upon reaching adolescence, which may show in the form of irritability
• Abdominal Pain
• Fatigue
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Headaches and Joint Pain

The symptoms of gluten allergy in children may show in the form of skin disease such as eczema or rashes, and will affect their growth. The effect on growth is one of the most serious symptoms of Celiac disease. This is because, when a child suffers from Celiac disease, the small intestine is damaged, and her/his ability to absorb essential nutrients from the food she/he eats is compromised. This leads to stunted growth in children, and thereby is considered an extremely serious autoimmune disease. If you believe that such a condition may exist, it is essential for you to consult your child's doctor and rule out the possibility of gluten intolerance or Celiac disease. This will require some tests to be conducted. Keep in mind that simply by ruling out Celiac disease, gluten intolerance does not get ruled out. Your child may still be sensitive to gluten, and will continue showing symptoms till you address the actual problem.

One way of understanding that your child suffers from gluten intolerance is to stop the consumption of all foods containing gluten. If you notice that the aforementioned symptoms decrease considerably, it is likely that your child is sensitive to gluten. Even so, diagnosing the condition yourself is not safe, and visiting a doctor to confirm the condition is extremely essential. Foods such as wheat, barley, spelt, and rye are the biggest culprits. Food products such as bread, pasta, oats, and the like should be avoided completely. Even if a product is wheat-free, gluten may be present in other forms, so be more careful. Nowadays, products clearly state that they are gluten-free, and following a gluten-free diet is easier. Opt for such products.

Also, since such foods are being avoided, your child will have to be given other nutritional supplements that fulfill those provided by the above mentioned foods. However, confirm with your doctor or a qualified nutritionist before adhering to this list. Once these changes have been made, the symptoms of gluten intolerance will definitely begin to subside, and will allow your child to lead a healthy life.

Disclaimer: This Buzzle article is for informative purposes only and does not, in any way, intend to replace the advice of a medical expert.