Final answer:
Wheat-based breads and cereals would be eliminated from the diet of a child diagnosed with celiac disease because they contain gluten, which damages the small intestine's lining in those with the condition.
Step-by-step explanation:
Among the choices given for the diet of a child diagnosed with celiac disease, the types of food that would need to be eliminated are wheat-based breads and cereals. Celiac disease requires that all foods containing gluten, which is found in wheat, barley, and rye, be removed from the diet. For individuals with celiac disease, consuming gluten causes an immune response that damages the lining of the small intestine, particularly the microvilli. This can lead to a range of symptoms and health issues such as diarrhea, anemia, and malnutrition. Therefore, anything made from wheat, which includes most conventional breads, pastas, and many cereals, must be avoided to prevent this autoimmune reaction and the consequent damage to the digestive system.
For a child with celiac disease, following a strictly gluten-free diet is the main treatment and it can often heal intestinal damage and prevent further complications. This includes avoiding traditional pasta and baked goods unless specifically labeled as gluten-free. Diagnosing celiac disease involves blood tests for specific antibodies and a biopsy of the small intestine to confirm the presence and extent of damage to the villi. Once diagnosed, adherence to a gluten-free diet is essential for managing symptoms and promoting intestinal healing.