Coeliac and Pregnancy

[Anj1a]

Hi all,

I’ve had my diagnosis for about 8 years so I have a pretty good grip on managing my GF diet, as well as being vegetarian by choice. I’m currently 21 weeks pregnant for the first time, and was just interested what others peoples pregnancy’s have been like as a Coeliac.

My check ups are with the doctors as opposed to community midwives, and I’m due to have additional scans at 28/32/36 weeks to ensure the growth of the baby is on track (risk of foetal growth restriction due to malabsorption). Also on vit d and iron supplements, due for the usual check for gestational diabetes at 28 weeks.

Has anyone had a different experience or has any suggestions re diet or tests I should ask for. Would appreciate any advice for the remainder of my pregnancy and hoping to breastfeed after.

Thanks

[Regalbirdy]

Hi,

I’ve never been pregnant as a Coeliac. However, I am also a Veggie by choice – I was a Veggie 28 years before I was a Coeliac - so from experience I would suggest that you keep an eye on your B12 levels. Veggie Coeliac’s do sometimes need extra monitoring for B12 - even when not pregnant, because the potential sources are that much more limited for us.

I would also consider being more aware of your Magnesium levels - this mineral is essential for bone health and often gets overlooked in favour of vitamin D and calcium. The reality is all that three are needed to be healthy, but do take professional advice on this one given your circumstances.

One more thing that I read recently, is that levels of L-Cartinitine tend to be lower in Vegetarians than in meat eaters. However I will leave you to do your own research on this one, as again I have absolutely no idea if it is a good idea to supplement it in pregnancy. I do know that some people use it to aid weight loss however!

All the best.

R.B.