Diabetes is characterized by high blood sugar and can be a serious, life-threatening condition, but is controllable through medication and lifestyle interventions. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disorder and the most common type of diabetes in children. Type 2 diabetes results when the body becomes resistant to insulin, a hormone that lowers blood sugar, or stops producing enough insulin. Type 2 diabetes is usually diagnosed in adulthood, but is increasingly affecting children. The National Diabetes Education Program (NDEP) stresses the importance of diet and exercise to manage both types of diabetes.
Blood Sugar
Blood sugar (blood glucose) indicates how well diabetes is being managed. It is evaluated using a blood sugar meter (glucometer) and an easy blood test and fluctuates based on diet and exercise. According to the American Diabetes Association (ADA), normal blood sugar supports physical and cognitive functioning. Uncontrolled blood sugar that is too high (hyperglycemia) or too low (hypoglycemia) can lead to vision problems, abnormal kidney and heart function, and disorders of the nervous system.
Diet
The goal of a healthy diet for diabetic children is to support growth and development, prevent obesity and avoid diabetic complications. Diabetic children can eat a variety of foods, but need to be mindful about how often they eat and how much they eat at one time to keep blood sugars within a normal range. They do not have to be as restrictive with their diet as diabetic adults, but the ADA stresses the importance of thinking ahead when planning for meals and snacks. Portion size and nutrient-dense foods are central to a healthy diet for a child with diabetes. Monitoring portion size prevents overeating, which can lead to weight gain and obesity, and nutrient-dense foods are naturally low in calories and fat, but packed with nutrients.
Foods to Encourage
The American Dietetic Association and ADA emphasize fruits, vegetables, whole grains, low-fat dairy products and lean proteins. These have carbohydrates and protein, which the body needs for energy and growth. The healthiest fruits and vegetables are fresh and frozen. Canned and dried fruits and vegetables are OK, but individuals should look for varieties that do not contain added salt and/or sugar. Whole grains include oats, brown rice, barley, quinoa, whole grain bread and pasta, bulgur and cornmeal. Examples of lean proteins are poultry, eggs, lean meats, beans, nuts, legumes, soy and fish. Low-fat dairy products include milk, yogurt and cheese. The best beverages for diabetic children are water, low-fat milk and 100 percent juice.
Foods to Limit
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), sugar causes dental cavities in children and raises blood sugar. Sugary foods also tend to be high in calories and low in essential nutrients. Diabetic children should limit the amount of added sugar in their diet by consuming more fresh foods and fewer processed foods. The American Dietetic Association encourages parents to avoid products that list sugar within the top four ingredients.
Fat helps the body absorb essential nutrients, but too much fat can cause weight gain and contributes to childhood obesity. The ADA recommends limiting saturated and trans fats such as butter, margarine and shortening. The healthiest fats are unsaturated from olive and vegetable oils, avocado, nuts and fish oil.
Physical Activity
According to the ADA and NDEP regular physical activity helps control blood sugar and supports a healthy weight. The NDEP recommends 60 minutes of physical activity a day, but according to the ADA, even 20 minutes of physical activity a day is beneficial.
Sickness
Diabetic children need to monitor their diet and blood sugar especially when sick. The ADA stresses the importance of taking medications, eating regularly, staying well hydrated and checking blood sugar every two to four hours during an illness. If children are unable to tolerate a normal diet, they should drink sports drinks, broth or juice to keep their blood sugar from falling too low.
References
- American Diabetes Association: Food and Fitness
- American Diabetes Association, Planet D: New to Diabetes
- American Dietetic Association & Wellpoint: Healthy Habits for Healthy Kids
- National Diabetes Education Program: Overview of Diabetes in Children and Adolescents
- United States Department of Agriculture: Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2005
