Type 1 diabetes, formerly known as juvenile or insulin-dependent diabetes, is a chronic condition that involves insufficient production of insulin, a hormone that helps glucose (sugar) enter cells and produce energy. No cure is known for type 1 diabetes, but it can be managed. In addition to medical treatments, a healthy diet can help keep a diabetic child's blood sugar levels and wellness in check. For best results, a doctor's guidance is suggested.
Function
A healthy diet for children provides appropriate amounts of calories while supporting a child's physical growth, wellness and development. In addition, children with diabetes should also reap positive blood sugar management from their diets. According to the Mayo Clinic, a diabetes-friendly diet provides a variety of healthy foods and nutrients, consumed in moderate amounts and at regular eating times throughout each day as a means of promoting and maintaining positive health.
Appropriate Food Amounts
Eating too much or too little can disrupt blood sugar levels in children with diabetes. According to the Children's Hospital Boston (CHB), skipping meals entirely may lead to potentially serious diabetes complications. Since the caloric intake of children varies, guidance from a qualified nutritionist or dietitian is suggested for specified guidance. In general, children with type 1 diabetes should consume three meals, plus snacks, as needed, on a daily, consistent basis. If a child consume appropriate amounts, he should not feel overly "stuffed" or hungry following meals and his blood sugar readings should reflect healthy levels.
Healthiest Foods
A diet based on various nutritious foods can provide children with an array of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants (disease-fighting nutrients), which support physical wellness, development and reduce risk for infections and disease. The American Diabetes Association (ADA) suggests a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, and choosing whole grain carbohydrates over processed carbohydrates, such as enriched bread, cereals and snack foods, as valuable ways to support healthy blood sugar levels and wellness.
Protein-rich foods also aid in blood sugar balance. Positive sources of protein include fish, skinless white-meat poultry, legumes and low-fat dairy products. (Low-fat dairy products provide ample amounts of calcium, which is vital to bone development in children.) Healthy fats should primarily stem from unsaturated fats, such as extra virgin olive oil, canola oil, flaxseed, nuts and natural peanut or almond butter.
Foods to Avoid
Refined carbohydrates, such as enriched white or wheat flour and sugar, may exacerbate blood sugar levels. They also tend to offer little nutritional value. The ADA suggests limiting enriched bread, pasta, cereals, sugary snacks and high-sugar foods such as ice cream, soft drinks and candy bars. Saturated fats and trans fats should also be avoided as they may increase a child's risk for heart disease, high cholesterol, certain forms of cancer and obesity later in life. Saturated and trans fats are prevalent in red meat, poultry fat, butter, cream, whole milk, deep-fried food, fast food and numerous processed foods. Saturated fat and trans fat content are listed on nutrition labels.
Suggestions
Regular consumption of balanced, nutrient-rich meals is encouraged for children with type 1 diabetes. The CHB suggests that roughly half of a child's daily calories should stem from carbohydrates. Each meal should contain reasonable amounts of complex carbohydrates and slightly lesser amounts of lean protein. A modest amount of healthy fat at each meal, such as a tablespoon of peanut butter or salad dressing, is also encouraged. For example, a balanced dinner may include a baked potato, grilled chicken breast, a whole grain roll and a vegetable salad topped with salad dressing. The CHB also suggests balanced bedtime snacks, such as peanut butter-topped bread and milk, for children with diabetes. Regular visits with a child's doctor and nutritionist can also help ensure that her nutritional needs are met.
