I Am A Coeliac And Have Just Found Out That

Posted on Sun, 27 Jan 2019

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Mon, 28 Jan 2019 Answered on

Last reviewed on

Question : I am a coeliac and have just found out that I am pregnant. Normally I follow a strict gluten free diet but unfortunately this morning I accidentally had some gluten. My body has been reacting to it ever since. I am very worried about the effect on the baby, as I know that at this time it is developing its neural tube and needs all the nutrients it can get, especially folic acid. Will having eaten the gluten damage the absorption of the necessary nutrients? Should I be worried and what can I do if so?

Answered by Dr. Dr.Dorina Gurabardhi (6 hours later)

Brief Answer:
The allergic reaction does not harm the baby,you should not be worried.

Detailed Answer:
Hello and Welcome to ‘Ask A Doctor’ service.
I have reviewed your query and here is my advice.

I understand your concern.

The impact on the baby due to the allergic reaction is very minimal.

Based on evidence studies the allergy does not harm the baby, so you should not be worried.

I would recommend to take antihistamines such as Zyrtec to relieve the symptoms.

This medication is considered safe to take during pregnancy.

Hope I have answered your query.
Let me know if I can assist you further.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T

Follow up: Dr. Dr.Dorina Gurabardhi (13 hours later)

Thank you for your reassuring answer. I am worried about the absorption of vitamins into my system over the next few weeks, if the gluten has affected my intestine. I take a daily pregnancy multivitamin - will enough of this still be absorbed, or should I increase the dosage to ensure the baby gets what it needs to develop?

Answered by Dr. Dr.Dorina Gurabardhi (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
Probably there is no need to increase the vitamin supplements.

Detailed Answer:
Hi again dear,

I would recommend to use Zyrtec at least for a week to reduce the body reaction.

Meanwhile, I suggest you to continue taking the same multivitamin supplements.

One episode of gluten consumption does not have a considerable impact on the absorption of the vitamins.

So, there is no need for a higher dose of the vitamin supplements.

Wishing you all the best.

Take care dear,

Dr.Dorina Gurabardhi

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Kampana