Babies and children that have a genetic predisposition to diabetes are not guaranteed to become diabetics. You can help manage your child's blood glucose levels by choosing foods that have slowly digestible carbohydrates and plenty of nutrients. Never attempt to put your baby or young child on a weight loss diet. Feed them healthy natural age appropriate and colorful foods until they are satiated. Always consult your child's doctor before making any significant shifts in your child's diet.
Breastmilk
For the first four to six months of your baby's life, she will be on a liquid only diet. Breast milk is the healthiest food for your baby at this time. All of baby's required nutrients are produced and contained in this living beverage, along with important immune factors such as antibodies and other white blood cells. If breastfeeding is not possible, formula contains the essential nutrients for your infant's survival. During this time, do not add cereal or solids to your child's diet. Her gastrointestinal system is still forming and is not ready for anything other than breast milk.
Introducing Solids
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends introducing solids between four and six months of age. Now there are choices to be made, such as if you will make your own baby food, purchase organic food products and whether you will wean your baby straight to table foods. Regardless of your decisions, you still need to choose healthy foods, especially if you believe your child has a predisposition to diabetes. Choose whole grain infant cereals, soft or pureed vegetables and mashed of pureed fruits without the peel. These are the same recommendations given to parents of non-diabetic children, but they are especially important to children for which glucose control is an issue.
Table Foods
Your child is now at the stage where she is able to feed herself, has mastered the ability to pick up small pieces of food with her thumb and pointer finger, the pincer grasp, and is able to manipulate foods in her mouth to avoid choking. Your child will begin eating the same foods that the family is eating. If you are eating a healthy, diabetes compliant meal plan, this food will also be good for your older infant. These foods include whole grain breads, vegetables, fruits, lean meats and dairy. Avoid sugary yogurt drinks, candy, refined carbohydrates and pastries.
