Children with celiac disease may be at risk for lower bone mineral density, according to a recent study published in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition. The research found poor absorption of bone-boosting vitamins D and K in children with the autoimmune disorder.
Before cutting out gluten, 43 percent of children had suboptimal vitamin D levels, which decreased to about 20 percent after a year of going gluten free (GF). Twenty-five percent had suboptimal vitamin K levels to start, and all but one returned to normal vitamin K levels after a year following a GF diet.
To keep bones strong, kids with celiac should supplement with at least 1,000 IU of vitamin D and 55–60 mcg vitamin K1 daily.
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