
I Am A Coeliac And Have Just Found Out That

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?
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.
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


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?
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
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
Note: For further follow up on related General & Family Physician Click here.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Kampana

Answered by

Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties
