Celiac disease is a chronic immune-mediated disorder that requires lifelong adherence to a gluten-free diet. Despite dietary treatment, children with celiac disease may experience nutritional inadequacies, unhealthy eating behaviors, reduced physical activity, and impaired quality of life. This randomized, single-blind, controlled trial aims to evaluate the effects of a structured nutrition education program combined with physical activity education on anthropometric measurements, eating behavior, physical activity, and health-related quality of life in children aged 8-12 years with celiac disease. Fifty-four participants will be randomly assigned to one of three groups: (1) nutrition and physical activity education, (2) physical activity education only, or (3) no education (control). Outcomes will be assessed at baseline and after a 6-week follow-up using validated questionnaires, anthropometric measurements, body composition analysis, and physical performance tests. The findings are expected to provide evidence for multidisciplinary educational interventions to improve the health and well-being of children with celiac disease.
Inclusion Criteria Children aged 8 to 12 years (inclusive). Clinically diagnosed with celiac disease. Following a gluten-free diet for at least 6 months before enrollment. Able to understand study instructions and complete study assessments. Parent or legal guardian able to provide written informed consent. Child able to provide assent to participate. Exclusion Criteria Following a gluten-free diet for reasons other than celiac disease. Age younger than 8 years or older than 12 years. Refusal or inability of the parent/legal guardian to provide informed consent or of the child to provide assent.
Any physical disability or medical condition that would limit participation in the physical activity program.
ilayda.altuncevahir@bau.edu.tr
Masking was not feasible because of the nature of the educational interventions. Participants and investigators were aware of the intervention received, and outcome assessments were performed by the study investigators.
Participants assigned to this group will receive a structured nutrition education session and a physical activity education program. Nutrition education will focus on healthy gluten-free dietary practices, reducing the consumption of packaged and ultra-processed gluten-free foods, preventing cross-contamination, and promoting balanced nutrition. Physical activity education will include supervised instruction on strengthening, aerobic, flexibility, balance, and coordination exercises. Participants will be followed for 6 weeks with weekly online support sessions.
A structured physical activity education program including supervised instruction on strengthening, aerobic, balance, flexibility, and coordination exercises. Participants will receive educational materials and weekly online follow-up to encourage adherence throughout the 6-week intervention period.
Participants assigned to the control group will not receive nutrition or physical activity education during the 6-week intervention period. They will complete the same baseline and post-intervention assessments as the intervention groups. After completion of the study, participants who wish to receive the educational program will be offered the intervention.
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