Ask Bonnie
February 2009
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Question #1:
I was wondering if you could suggest some ways to increase fiber intake in my 8 1/2 year old daughter. She is experiencing some constipation, and I was told to increase fiber intake to 13 g/day, and increase liquid intake to 20-24 oz/day. In addition to raw fruits and vegetables, are there any "safe" products (bars, cereals, etc) that you would recommend?
Answer #1:
I disagree with eating extra fiber as the answer
to her constipation in a child this young. It's usually from too much calcium
(especially in milk), inability to digest large amounts of gluten/corn/grains,
or low levels of magnesium.
Sure, we could get her to go with Miralax, Citrucel, Mineral Oil, Aloe Vera, or
copious amounts of whole grains, etc. that would help the problem. However,
getting to the cause is critical.
#1 Safe Idea:
If she can swallow a capsule (if not, cut into small pieces), give her one
magnesium pill (Nature Made 250 mg.) before bed.
#2 Safe Idea:
She should eat at least three raw fruits and four raw/lightly cooked vegetables
(do not count corn or carrots) daily. If this doesn't work, you need to make an
appointment for her.
Question #2:
I wanted your thoughts on food labeled gluten free, with the warning of equipment used for flour, but use of good segregation practices.? I am sure you are aware of the Tribune's expose pointing a finger at Whole Foods. WF now removed their allergen list from the store and website and removed their green gluten-free shelf tags.
Answer #2:
Yes, I did see the Tribune expose. Dr. Glen Gordon (celiac expert) told me months ago that there is no way to trust oats. Even if the contamination does not occur during growing season or with equipment, the transportation of grains is the issue. Do you really think they purify the railroad cars every time they ship a different grain? Not possible. Also, what the "hoping to eat oats" gluten intolerant public does not understand is that oats have gluten (so does corn), but they are just different. Sometimes corn is tolerated by celiacs, but the huge amount of cornstarch in many gluten-free products is hardly ever tolerated. I cannot tell you that shared equipment, with promises of safety, is reliable for any celiac. However, if it is only gluten intolerance, it would be okay.
Have a happy, healthy day.
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