It was a warm Sunday afternoon, and I found myself at a family barbecue at my cousin Anita’s place. I had been looking forward to this day—good food, laughter, and spending time with family. As everyone gathered around the table filled with freshly grilled meats, colorful salads, and, of course, my Aunt Rose’s famous baked bread, I noticed Anita’s 10-year-old daughter, Mia, sitting quietly at the side. Unlike the other kids who were running around, Mia seemed lethargic, barely touching her food.
I sat down next to her, smiling. “Hey Mia, not hungry today?”
She looked up at me, her eyes a little tired. “My tummy hurts, Aunt Priya. It always does after eating bread.”
Anita, overhearing us, turned to me with a concerned expression. “Priya, I’ve noticed Mia has been having a lot of stomach issues lately. She’s also lost a bit of weight and always seems tired. I think something is off, but I don’t know what.” Anita’s voice was tinged with a mix of worry and exhaustion.
I knew that tone too well—the sound of a mother concerned for her child’s well-being. I immediately felt that there might be something more to Mia’s discomfort, something that needed attention. Anita, I think it could be worth looking into the possibility of coeliac disease,” I said gently. “Let’s talk about it, and I can explain what it is.”
What Is Coeliac Disease?
“Coeliac disease,” I began, “is a hereditary disorder of the small intestine that is caused by a sensitivity to gluten, which is a type of protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. Essentially, Mia’s body may not be able to tolerate gluten, and whenever she eats foods that contain it—like bread, pasta, or even some breakfast cereals—her immune system might be causing damage to her small intestine.”
Anita listened closely, her brow furrowed in concern. “But what exactly happens in her body?” she asked.
“Good question,” I replied. “Normally, the lining of our small intestine has a fluffy texture, which helps absorb nutrients like sugars, proteins, vitamins, and minerals from the food we eat. But in children with coeliac disease, gluten damages this lining, making it smooth and flat. This means it loses its ability to absorb nutrients properly, which is why Mia may not be getting the energy and nutrition she needs—even if she’s eating regularly.”
Understanding Gluten and Its Effects
I leaned in to explain, “Gluten is found in many of the foods that Mia might love—bread, pasta, cakes, and even some processed foods. It acts almost like an ‘enemy’ to Mia’s small intestine, causing it to react badly, resulting in symptoms like abdominal pain, diarrhoea, and general tiredness.”
Anita sighed. “I guess that explains the pale, bulky stool Mia’s been having lately, and why she often complains of stomach aches after dinner.”
Symptoms of Coeliac Disease in Children
I could see Anita piecing everything together. “You’re exactly right. In Mia’s case, coeliac disease might explain her symptoms,” I said, going on. “In children, the symptoms can vary, and sometimes there are no symptoms at all for years, which can make it quite tricky to diagnose. But if there are symptoms, they often include:”
- Abdominal pain and diarrhea: These symptoms are pretty common and usually happen soon after consuming gluten.
- Failure to gain weight: In some cases, kids with coeliac disease may lose weight instead of gaining it, even if they’re eating well.
- Tiredness and irritability: This could explain why Mia often feels tired and is sometimes easily upset.
Anita nodded, looking over at Mia, who was still quietly nibbling at some rice. “That’s exactly how it’s been lately,” she said. “She doesn’t seem to grow as much as the other kids, and she’s always complaining about her stomach.”
How Is Coeliac Disease Diagnosed?
“So, how do we know for sure?” Anita asked.
“The best way to diagnose coeliac disease,” I explained, “is through blood tests that can give strong clues about the condition. But the key confirmation comes from a biopsy of the small intestine, which is done under general anesthesia. The biopsy will show whether the intestine has that flattened appearance we discussed.”
Anita looked a little worried at the mention of anesthesia. “Is it necessary?” she asked.
“In many cases, yes, because it helps provide a definitive diagnosis,” I assured her. “And if Mia does have coeliac disease, the good news is that with the right diet, she can start feeling better quite quickly.”
Treatment: Managing Coeliac Disease with Diet
“So, what’s the treatment?” Anita asked, a bit hesitantly.
The only way to manage coeliac disease is with a gluten-free diet,” I said. This means avoiding foods that contain wheat, rye, and barley. It might sound overwhelming at first, but many tasty alternatives are available these days—like gluten-free bread, biscuits, and pasta. Plus, supermarkets have dedicated sections with gluten-free options. The important thing is to read labels carefully and ensure Mia is getting the nutrition she needs.”
Anita seemed relieved. “Okay, so if we make these changes, will she get better?”
I smiled. “Absolutely. The intestinal lining will begin to heal, and over time, Mia will start absorbing nutrients properly again. The change can often be seen within weeks or months. She’ll start gaining weight, her energy levels will improve, and those stomach pains will become less frequent.”
What Are the Risks and Consequences if Left Untreated
“What if we hadn’t noticed this?” Anita asked, her voice full of concern.
“Untreated coeliac disease can lead to some long-term consequences,” I replied. “Children can have stunted growth or even develop anemia due to poor absorption of nutrients. In some rare cases, untreated coeliac disease can also increase the risk of certain types of infections. But the good news is that when it’s diagnosed early and the diet is managed, these risks are greatly reduced.
Common FAQs About Coeliac Disease in Children
Q: Can coeliac disease be cured?
A: No, there is no cure for coeliac disease, but it can be effectively controlled with a strict gluten-free diet for life.
Q: Are there foods that Mia can still enjoy?
A: Definitely! Mia can eat rice, corn, potatoes, fruits, vegetables, dairy, eggs, and meat. Many gluten-free substitutes for her favorite foods are also available now.
Q: How can we ensure Mia is getting enough nutrients?
A: It’s important to make sure Mia gets iron, calcium, and vitamins from her diet or supplements. Consulting a dietitian can be very helpful in planning balanced meals for her.
A Positive Outlook for Mia
I turned to Anita and gave her a reassuring smile. The most important thing to remember, Anita, is that Mia can lead a healthy, happy life with the right changes. It might take some adjusting, but she will feel better, and you’ll see her health improve in so many ways. And remember, you’re not alone—support groups and dietitians can make this transition smoother for you both.”
Anita looked visibly more at ease. “Thank you, Priya,” she said. “I think this is the answer we’ve been looking for.”
As the day came to an end, I watched as Mia ran out to play with her cousins, her face lighting up with a smile. I knew that with her mother’s care and the right information, Mia’s future could be as bright and happy as any other child’s.
Coeliac Disease Doesn’t Define Mia
Coeliac disease is a challenge, but with awareness, a proper diagnosis, and dietary adjustments, it doesn’t define who a child is. Mia’s journey is just beginning, and with the love and care of her family, she can thrive and live her best life—without gluten but full of joy and vitality.
