Assessing the Impact of Early Nutritional Intervention on Pediatric Celiac Disease Management: A Prospective Cohort Study.

BACKGROUND

Celiac disease is a chronic autoimmune condition requiring lifelong adherence to a gluten-free diet, particularly in children, to prevent nutritional deficiencies and developmental delays.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of study was to evaluate the effects of early nutritional intervention on the management and health outcomes of children diagnosed with celiac disease.

METHODOLOGY

A prospective, longitudinal cohort study was conducted over two years (July 2019-July 2021). A customized gluten-free meal plan and any necessary dietary supplements were given to the participants. Baseline evaluations and six-monthly follow-ups were used to gather data on growth, nutritional status, and dietary compliance. SPSS was used for the statistical analysis, and a significance threshold of p<0.05 was established.

RESULTS

Significant improvements were observed in growth metrics, with mean height increasing from 145.67 cm to 157.48 cm and weight from 36.29 kg to 46.24 kg over 24 months (p < 0.001). Nutritional status also improved, with serum iron levels rising from 45.19 µg/dL to 76.89 µg/dL and vitamin D from 20.14 ng/mL to 44.22 ng/mL (p < 0.001). Dietary adherence increased from 84.37% to 94.62%.

CONCLUSION

Growth and nutritional results in children with celiac disease are greatly improved with nutritional intervention.