When introducing gluten into the diet of babies has been and continues to be a subject of study by experts. In recent years, the recommendations have been changing based on new scientific evidence that corrected or nuanced the previous ones.
We will see what are the current recommendations on the introduction of gluten to reduce the risk of developing celiac disease. Remember that celiac disease It is an autoimmune disorder that affects the intestine and other organs caused by gluten intake, a protein found in wheat, barley, rye, oats and tritícale (hybrid of wheat and rye).
For years the recommendation of the Nutrition Committee of the European Society of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition (ESPGHAN) has prevailed to avoid both its early introduction, before 4 months, and the late introduction, after 7 months, and gradually introduce it while the child receives breastfeeding.
It was thus intended to reduce the risk of developing celiac disease, gluten allergy and diabetes. However, two independent studies published at the end of 2014 concluded that neither the age of gluten introduction modifies the risk of developing celiac disease, nor does breastfeeding confer protection against it.
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Therefore, the Spanish Association of Pediatrics, based on the scientific evidence available so far, recommends:
Breastfeeding is always recommended, regardless of whether or not you modify the risk of developing celiac disease.
It is recommended to introduce complementary feeding while continuing breastfeeding.
It is not recommended to introduce gluten before 4 months of age.
It is recommended introduce gluten at around 6 months of age:
It seems reasonable its introduction between 5 and 6 months of age.
If, for some reason, complementary feeding begins early, it could be considered to be introduced at 4 months, although it may be preferable to use other cereals, such as rice or corn (gluten-free), not related to celiac disease.
If the onset of complementary feeding is delayed, the introduction of gluten can be delayed, without entailing an increased risk of developing celiac disease.
Introduce gluten in small quantities (for example, one or two cereal cups or one cookie a day) and increase your consumption gradually.
conclusion: start giving gluten-free foods in small quantities with the start of complementary feeding, at six months old, and gradually increase the amount.
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