Symptom 10: Unexplained Weight Loss
Children grow at different rates, and minor weight fluctuations are natural. However, a significant and unexplained drop in weight, especially without a change in appetite or activity, is alarming. For children with celiac disease, this can be a telling symptom.
The malabsorption of nutrients, a hallmark of celiac disease, is the primary culprit. Even if the child eats well, their body isn’t absorbing the essential nutrients, vitamins, and calories it needs. This imbalance can result in weight loss.
While the scale might show a drop in pounds or kilograms, the real concern is what this represents. Weight loss can signify severe malnutrition, which can have long-term impacts on a child’s growth, cognitive development, and overall health.
Merely increasing calorie intake isn’t the solution. The key is to identify and confirm the celiac diagnosis and then transition the child to a strict gluten-free diet. This can restore gut health, improve nutrient absorption, and gradually lead to weight stabilization.(10)
