Background and Objectives: Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder triggered by the consumption of gluten, characterized by chronic inflammation of the small intestine. This condition leads to gastrointestinal symptoms, such as diarrhea and extraintestinal manifestations, including growth failure, osteopenia, and anemia, posing serious consequences for the health and development of children. The only way to manage this disease is to adhere to a gluten-free diet. Numerous studies have reported conflicting results regarding nutritional deficiencies in children with celiac disease and the impact of a gluten-free diet on these deficiencies. The present study aimed to describe micronutrient deficiencies and propose strategies for the improvement of these deficiencies in children with celiac disease.
Materials and Methods: Online database searches were performed until December 2024. The keywords employed included "celiac disease," "nutritional status," "vitamins," "minerals," "nutrients," "gluten-free diet," "children," "micronutrients," and "malnutrition." Studies were initially selected based on their titles, followed by an evaluation of the abstracts, and subsequently, a thorough review of the full texts of the articles.
Results: Children with celiac disease commonly experience deficiencies in micronutrients, such as iron, vitamin B12, vitamin D, calcium, magnesium, and zinc, which arise from malabsorption and the atrophy of intestinal villi. These deficiencies may persist even after the initiation of treatment, as the elimination of gluten-containing grains, particularly enriched breads, can lead to nutritional imbalances.
Conclusion: As evidenced by the obtained results, monitoring nutritional status and adhering to a balanced gluten-free diet is essential. Furthermore, referral to a nutritionist for education and ongoing assessment of the nutritional status of children with celiac disease is of utmost importance.
Type of Study:
Review Article |
Subject:
Health Sciences Received: 2025/01/15 | Accepted: 2025/04/28 | Published: 2025/06/21