Renee Covington posted a new activity comment: 2 months, 3 weeks ago · View
My daughter was diagnosed with Celiac Disease by biopsy one year after the birth of her first son. He is now three years old, she has been completely faithful to a gluten free life style and is doing well. She had a miscarriage last March and now is pregnant for a baby boy to be born any day now. With her first pregnancy she consumed gluten and her child shows no symtems of gluten intolerance, he eats gluten free at home, but is exposed to gluten foods at day care and relatives homes.
My question stems from a great concern we have due to the fact that the new baby has not been exposed to any form of gluten in the womb. We have been researching this and have been informed that genetic testing for Celiac Disease is not available until the baby is one to two years old. We have also been informed that since he has not been exposed to gluten that any exposure no matter how small could cause death, heart attack, stroke or brain damage. I am looking for advice and a practical life plan. She plans on breast feeding, but in the hopefully unlikely event this fails we have only found one baby formula that is gluten free. All of the ramifications to this scenario are mind boggling. Any enlightenment will be greatly appreciated.Thank you
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Renee Covington became a registered member 2 months, 3 weeks ago · View
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Dear Renee,
I certainly understand your concern. While introducing gluten to the baby is not a good idea until his genetics have been tested, I know of no research that shows that any contamination or accidental ingestion could result in death, heart attack, stroke or brain damage. Can you let me know where you got that data?
Breastfeeding is always the best idea, for all moms and babies in my opinion, and there is no reason to anticipate any problems in that regard. Good rest and lots of water will keep her milk supply strong and don’t worry that it takes a few days for breast milk to come in. The colostrum that she’s producing is extremely rich in nutrients and it’s all the baby needs for the first few days.
It frustrates me when mom’s are told that their milk isn’t coming in and they have to supplement. This is often told to mothers on the second day after delivery – far too early to worry about.
But do let me know if there are any problems because much can be done to ensure good healthy milk supply.
I know that it can be stressful but it sounds like your daughter is doing quite well. Keep me informed though as I’m happy to help and be a resource for you.
All the best,
Dr Vikki