Several studies have investigated how many children with short stature actually suffer from celiac disease.
In addition, more than three-quarters of the children were shorter than 97.5% of their peers.
However, their growth then tapered off to an average of 2.2 inches in subsequent years.
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Another study published in 2009, this one in Serbia, found similar results.
However, another study indicates that the catch-up growth might not produce perfect results.
What Does This Mean for Your Child?
It’s not clear from the research whether it matters if your child follows the diet strictly.
(Of course, there are plenty of other reasons not to cheat on the gluten-free diet.)
If you have concerns about your celiac child’s growth, you should discuss them with your pediatrician.
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Children’s Hospital Colorado.Short Stature and Growth Disorders.
2005;94(3):437-42. doi:10.1079/bjn20051479
