In a significant step towards raising awareness about childhood gut health and celiac disease, Manipal Hospitals Dwarka, in collaboration with Indian Academy of Pediatrics (IAP Delhi) and IAP West Delhi, organised its Annual Celiac Support Group & Kids Wellness Day this May, observed globally as Celiac Disease Awareness Month.

The event brought together children, adolescents, parents, and healthcare experts for an engaging and informative day centred around healthy gluten-free living, early diagnosis, and long-term management of celiac disease. A major highlight of the programme was the launch of ‘Oorja’, a dedicated support group created to offer continuous monitoring, regular follow-ups, nutritional guidance, and developmental support for children living with the condition.

Led by Dr. Sufla Saxena, the initiative witnessed enthusiastic participation from families seeking better awareness and support around digestive health. The programme featured health screenings, expert-led awareness sessions, personalised nutritional counselling, interactive discussions, and engaging activities specially designed for children. Parents were also guided on recognising early symptoms, maintaining gut health, and effectively managing gluten-free diets in everyday life.

Adding depth to the discussions, a panel session titled “My Child, My Priority” focused on helping parents understand childhood digestive disorders, growth concerns, and the importance of timely medical intervention in celiac disease. Experts highlighted how delayed diagnosis often impacts a child’s physical growth, energy levels, and overall well-being.

A key area of discussion during the event was the growing connection between gut health and mental wellness in children. Doctors explained how poor gut health can contribute to issues such as fatigue, lack of concentration, brain fog, and reduced mental clarity through the microbiota-gut-brain axis. The conversations stressed the importance of balanced nutrition, sustained gut care, and early medical attention to ensure healthy physical and cognitive development in children.

Speaking about the initiative, Dr. Sufla Saxena, HOD – Paediatrics and Paediatric Gastroenterology & Hepatology at Manipal Hospital Dwarka, said, “Celiac disease is an autoimmune condition triggered by gluten consumption and, if left untreated, can significantly affect a child’s growth, nutrition, and overall well-being. In India, where wheat-based foods are a staple part of daily meals, maintaining a gluten-free diet can often be challenging for families. Symptoms such as bloating, poor weight gain, fatigue, stomach discomfort, and lack of concentration are frequently overlooked. Through initiatives like our Annual Celiac Support Group, we aim to provide continuous support, regular monitoring, nutritional guidance, and long-term care so children can lead healthy, active, and confident lives.”

Reinforcing its commitment towards child healthcare, the hospital stated that it continues to strengthen its paediatric-ready infrastructure with 24x7 support services covering emergency care, routine consultations, vaccinations, and specialised paediatric departments including gastroenterology, surgery, neurology, and cardiology.