Gluten intolerance, also known as celiac disease, affects approximately 1% of the population worldwide.

While the causes of gluten intolerance are not well understood, recent research suggests that childhood infections may play a role in the development of the disease.

What is Gluten Intolerance?

Gluten intolerance is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s immune system reacts against gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye.

This reaction causes damage to the small intestine, which can lead to a variety of symptoms, including diarrhea, abdominal pain, and malnutrition.

Gluten intolerance is often diagnosed in childhood, but it can also develop later in life. The condition is more common in people with family members who have the disease, and it is more common in people of European descent.

What are Childhood Infections?

Childhood infections are infections that occur in children, typically between the ages of 6 months and 5 years. They are caused by viruses and bacteria and can range from mild to severe.

Common childhood infections include:.

Cold and flu
Ear infections
Chickenpox
Measles
Mumps
Rubella

The Link between Childhood Infections and Gluten Intolerance

Recent studies have found a link between childhood infections and the development of gluten intolerance.

One study, published in the journal Pediatrics, found that children who had experienced three or more infections before the age of 3 were nearly three times more likely to develop celiac disease than children who had experienced no infections.

Another study, published in the journal BMC Pediatrics, found that children who had experienced severe infections requiring hospitalization were more likely to develop celiac disease than children who had experienced milder infections.

The exact mechanism behind the link between childhood infections and gluten intolerance is not well understood. One theory is that infections may disrupt the immune system, causing it to react abnormally to gluten.

Preventing Childhood Infections

Preventing childhood infections is important not only for reducing the risk of developing gluten intolerance, but also for preventing other health problems. Here are a few tips for preventing childhood infections:.

Make sure your child is up-to-date on vaccinations
Teach your child proper hand-washing techniques
Avoid close contact with people who are sick
Cover your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze
Stay home when you are sick

Treating Gluten Intolerance

The only treatment for gluten intolerance is a gluten-free diet. This means avoiding all foods that contain wheat, barley, and rye.

It is important to work with a healthcare provider or registered dietitian to develop a nutritionally balanced gluten-free diet.

It is also important to read food labels carefully, as many processed foods contain gluten. Some common sources of hidden gluten include:.

Modified food starch
Malt
Hydrolyzed vegetable protein
Wheat starch
Brewer’s yeast

Conclusion

Childhood infections may increase the risk of developing gluten intolerance. While the exact mechanism behind this link is not well understood, it is important to take steps to prevent childhood infections.

If you or your child has been diagnosed with gluten intolerance, a gluten-free diet is the only treatment available. Working with a healthcare provider or registered dietitian can help ensure that the diet is nutritionally adequate.