Could Gluten Be a Problem
for Your Kids?
Reactions to gluten, a protein found in wheat, rye, and barley, can trigger a range of symptoms and illnesses in children who have celiac disease (an autoimmune condition in the gut) or nonceliac gluten sensitivity (a reaction to gluten that isn’t an autoimmune condition). The following symptoms might indicate that your child is adversely reacting to gluten. (Take note: Except for “growing pains” and slow growth, the same symptoms can be warning signs in adults, too.)
- Uncomfortable or sore tummy
- Bloating and gas
- Gastric reflux or heartburn
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Weakness, lack of energy,or feeling exhausted
- Chronic iron deficiency
- “Growing pains”
- Dermatitis, eczema, or itchy or bad skin
- Depressed, moody, or grumpy
- Difficulty thinking clearly
- Slow growth
- Headaches or migraines
- Poor sleep
- Hyperactive or cranky
- Mental health issues
If your child is experiencing symptoms, it’s a good idea to have him or her tested for celiac disease. If the tests are positive, completely removing gluten from your child’s diet is a must! If the tests come out negative, try removing gluten from your child’s diet for a time to see if his or her symptoms improve.
Source: The Gluten Syndrome: Is Wheat Causing You Harm? by Rodney Ford, MD