Underweight
QUESTION
Dear Nutritionist,
Hi. I have a very important question concerning my weight. I'm 5'2 and around 100-103 lbs. I'm severely lactose intolerant and have omitted lactose products from my diet, but I still have problems with my stomach, from abdominal bloating and cramping, to severe constipation. In fact, I thought it was normal to have a bowel movement every 3 or 4 days! Now I know thats not normal.
My BMI does not match up and has never done so. Now my docs are trying to see if I have Celiac's Disease. I know I was suppose to wait before excluding gluten, but I've already started and I feel somewhat better.
My husband and I have been trying to conceive for almost 1 year, I'm 22 and he is 35 on dialysis. Can you please tell me if my nutrition imbalance has a major affect on my fertility ovulation?
I just want to know. I have another appt. in a few days, just a little impatient because if I am ovulating, it's almost time! Help please!
ANSWER
First of all I have to tell you that if you have NOT been tested for celiac disease yet you should NOT omit gluten. Doing so will make it more difficult for them to diagnose you and will make the process much longer. If you want answers quick then you need to make sure you follow your doctor's orders!
Celiac disease is definitely something that can effect fertility. Because you do not yet know if this is what you are experiencing I cannot tell you for sure whether this is YOUR problem. I can only tell you that celiac disease, untreated, can effect fertility.
You need to be patient and let the doctor's properly diagnose you. Once you know what the problem is, you can be treated correctly and increase your chances for conceiving. Good luck! I know the waiting can be difficult but it will be worth it in the long run!
-- Kimberly, RD LD
Kimberly Tessmer
Kimberly A. Tessmer, RD LD has been a registered dietitian since 1992 and is also an Ohio licensed Dietitian. Her educational achievements include a Bachelor of Science in Technology (Dietetics) from Bowling State University in Bowling Green, OH. She currently owns and operates a consulting business called "Nutrition Focus" www.nutrifocus.net, in which she specializes and offers services in the areas of weight management, general nutrition, authoring, menu development and a variety of other services.
To date Kim has authored three books including "The Everything® Nutrition Book", "Tell Me What To Eat If I Have Celiac Disease", and "The Everything® Pregnancy Nutrition Book". In addition, Kim has written numerous articles for various health/nutrition web sites and magazines including Bally Total Fitness Magazine, Well and Healthy Women Magazine and Healthology.com, Inc as well as continuing education courses for www.care2learn.com. She is a member of the American Dietetic Association and the ADA Practice Group, Nutrition Entrepreneurs.
