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View Full PDFThe Gluten–Free Diet Guide for Parents:
Gluten, Celiac Disease, and Teens
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What is gluten?
Gluten is a protein complex found in the grains wheat, barley, rye, spelt, and triticale. Flours made from these grains are commonly used to make foods such as breads, cereals, pasta, pizza, and baked goods. The gluten in these foods gives them the elastic texture and it helps provides the structure of the food.
Why would someone need to follow a gluten–free diet?
Anyone with celiac disease should follow a gluten–free diet.
What is celiac disease?
Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder that is triggered when gluten–containing foods are eaten. An autoimmune disorder is one in which the body’s immune system attacks an organ. When a person with celiac disease eats a food with gluten in it, the immune system launches an attack against the small intestine which damages the lining of the intestine and decreases nutrient absorption. Noticeable symptoms of celiac disease include diarrhea, abdominal pain, weight loss, nutritional deficiencies, anemia, poor appetite, irregular periods, delayed growth, and delayed onset of puberty. Some teens will have almost no noticeable symptoms, but their health care provider may detect low bone density.
Gluten is toxic for someone with celiac disease. Following a gluten–free diet prevents harm to the small intestine and allows it to heal. The gluten–free diet should stop your teen’s symptoms of both celiac disease and gluten intolerance.
Things to keep in mind...
A gluten–free diet isn't always a healthy diet. Some people who follow a gluten–free diet may not get enough of certain nutrients, vitamins, and minerals in their diet such as fiber, iron and calcium. Also, some gluten–free products can be high in calories and sugar. If your teen must follow a gluten–free diet, it's best to meet with a nutritionist to develop a healthy, balanced meal plan and to identify if any vitamin or mineral supplements are necessary.
There are many hidden sources of gluten. Remember to check products such as toothpaste, mouthwash, lipstick/gloss, stamps/envelope, glues, supplements, vitamins, and both prescription and over the counter medications. These are frequently overlooked sources of gluten.
- Medications: Both prescription and over–the–counter medications may contain gluten. For over–the–counter medications, check with your pharmacist. With prescription medications, ask your teen's health care provider to write, “Medication must be gluten–free” on any prescriptions.
- Soaps, Shampoos, and Lotions: Many of these products contain wheat or oat. While gluten cannot be absorbed through the skin, it is important to be aware of this, especially if your teen has a habit of biting her finger nails.
- Envelopes and Stamps: Envelopes and stamps may have a gluten–containing adhesive. Your teen should use self–adhesive envelopes or use a sponge to wet the adhesive kind.
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Updated: 8/2/2011
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