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.