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babysitting in a non-gluten free household

gf-kel

By gf-kel
in Related Issues & Disorders

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gf-kel Newbie
gf-kel
Posted

I started a babysitting job this past week (9am to 5pm - 5 days a week) in a household that is not gluten free. I’ve been careful about washing my hands a lot, using hand sanitizer and cleaning before drinking from my water bottle and eating once I get home (I do not eat in this house). I’ve been sick twice this week with my usual celiac symptoms (stomach pain, severe burping, nausea, diarrhea, etc.). Is it possible that I am getting sick by being around gluten/feeding the child/playing with playdough? Does anyone have any tips for avoiding being contaminated?

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trents Grand Master
trents
Posted

Commercial Playdough does contain gluten so if after handling it you put your fingers in your mouth or touch the straw/spout on your water bottle you might be getting a small amount of gluten contamination but given your state precautions, it seems unlikely.

Having said that, I would look for other sources of possible glutening such as changes in the formulation of foods you eat at home or infections not gluten-related that mimic the symptoms of being glutened. Small children are germ farms and then in the back of all of our minds is COVID-19.

cyclinglady Grand Master
cyclinglady
Posted

Take a look at old member Jebby.  She has a FB/site called The Patient Celiac.  She (celiac) is a premie doctor who has four kids and her adorable kids were making her sick.  Not sure how old the kids are that you are watching, but some household allow kids to walk around eating and touching everything.  Do they bake?  Flour can last for 24 hours.  Any licking dogs?  
 

 

Awol cast iron stomach Experienced
Awol cast iron stomach
Posted
(edited)
3 hours ago, gf_kel said:

I started a babysitting job this past week (9am to 5pm - 5 days a week) in a household that is not gluten free. I’ve been careful about washing my hands a lot, using hand sanitizer and cleaning before drinking from my water bottle and eating once I get home (I do not eat in this house). I’ve been sick twice this week with my usual celiac symptoms (stomach pain, severe burping, nausea, diarrhea, etc.). Is it possible that I am getting sick by being around gluten/feeding the child/playing with playdough? Does anyone have any tips for avoiding being contaminated?

While many people say play dough shouldn't be an issue. May I suggest a fun activity to rule that out see if they family is open to you bringing homemade playdough or making it together that way it is safe for you. 

example recipes here

(I suggest NOT making it known it is ediable.  don't want to confuse your little kiddos you work with)

https://www.aaaai.org/conditions-and-treatments/just-for-kids/allergy-free-play-dough-recipes

also as cycling lady said trace gluten may get accidentally near your mouth/ mucus membranes. If you shared your status see if they are willing to buy a few snacks that are gluten-free. When I worked with real little ones I gave my boss a gluten-free list of items string cheese, pudding cup, Apple sauce gogo squeeze, Apple slices etc so I was safe to serve. The few items she inadvertently bought as substitute s that had gluten I had a co worker or older volunteer in class or  sibling etc serve. 

If they are open to having a few gluten-free snacks on hand for your work days that would be best.

Lastly, when my own children were young if I noticied  my sitter had a favorite snack yogurt or water, we usually bought it and made a point to let her know it was available . We bought extra for her too. one liked a particular yogurt brand. A good sitter is worth this small gesture. Hopefully your clients feel the same.

Good luck 

 

Edited by Awol cast iron stomach
Overzealous a u to incorrect

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