2 Kiddos With Celiac... Gluten While Pregnant

[CeliacMommaX2]

I'm not sure if this is the best place to post this question since I do not have celiac myself.

 

I have 2 children who have celiac, so I feel like the odds of another would be high (anyone know if that's the case?)  My husband and I both have tested negative (we have NOT done any genetic testing).  Our household is strictly gluten free now. 

 

Is there any danger to me and the baby if I go ahead and remain gluten free for the pregnancy and post-partum time? 

Is there any research on when to introduce gluten or can I just hold off on gluten until the baby is older and ready to do a gluten trial to test for celiac?

 

Thank you!

[ravenwoodglass]

Sorry this reply is so late. As long as you are getting good nutrition there is no problem with you being gluten free while pregnant. If you do need the diet for medical reasons then eating gluten could definately cause issues so IMHO it is better being safe than sorry. 

[cyclinglady]

There should be not issues remaining gluten free during your pregnancy, postpartum, and while lactating as long as you are eating a healthy diet. I would even keep baby on a gluten-free diet to give him or her the best chance of developing and growing. Think about a gluten challenge prior to school years perhaps.

There really has not been enough research to help guide you unfortunately!

[nvsmom]

Gluten is not needed nutritionally by humans, at all.  The only reason foods made from wheat, and gluten containing flours, are healthy is because they are fortified with vitamins and minerals (added after processing).  You can get all of those vitamins and minerals, and fibre, from veggies, fruits and meats.  Going without grains is perfectly healthy; the only people who would need to be careful are vegans (and some vegetarians) since they would be getting some of their protein from gluten.

 

The same goes for young children - they don't need it at all.  If worried, find a multivitamin.

[cyclinglady]

Oh, your research might show that by going gluten-free, many people miss out on valuable nutrients. That is true for those that survive on a junk food diet! I suspect you do not fall into that category (not that I never eat a chip, but those are considered treats and saved for parties or emergency foo while on the road!