Diabetes affects about 151,000 people under age 20 in America, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Unlike in the past, a diabetic child isn't expected to adhere to a restricted diet significantly different from her peers. Nothing need be completely off-limits as long as nutritional needs are being met and blood sugar levels remain under control.
Goals
The goals of a diet for a diabetic child not only involve keeping blood sugar levels under control but also providing all of the calories and nutrition needed to grow and thrive. Unlike an adult with diabetes, a child is expected to gain weight and needs to keep caloric intake high enough to do so. At the same time, a diabetic child needs to also keep from gaining too much weight and should keep blood lipid levels within a healthy range so that the risk of future diabetes complications remains low.
Nutritional Requirements
Children who are diabetic don't have additional nutritional requirements over what normal children have. In infancy, the nutritional requirements can be met completely through breast milk or commercially produced infant formula. After starting solids, a well-balanced diet containing whole grains, lean protein, dairy, vegetables and fruit should provide all of the nutrients necessary to sustain a diabetic child. The specific amount of food a diabetic child should consume depends on his age and weight and can be determined by a doctor or qualified dietitian.
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates are a cornerstone of a healthy childhood diet for diabetics and non-diabetics alike. According to Kids Health, 50 to 60 percent of a diabetic child's daily calories should come from carbohydrates. Carbohydrate intake needs to be balanced with physical activity level and insulin requirements, which are specific to the individual child. Try to avoid feeding a diabetic child highly refined carbohydrates, such as white bread, plain white rice, cake or cookies. Highly refined grains lack fiber and contain easily digested sugars that can make blood glucose rise rapidly. Whole grain products, on the other hand, contain plenty of fiber and take longer to break down in the digestive tract, allowing for a slower release of sugar. Sweets aren't off limits for diabetic children, but should be consumed in moderation. It's a good idea to check blood glucose levels after a diabetic child consumes a sweet treat, such as candy or dessert, in order to adjust her insulin dose if necessary.
Considerations
Diabetics of all ages may benefit from spreading out meals and snacks throughout the day to keep blood sugar levels steady. Three meals and two to three snacks can provide sufficient food to prevent fluctuations in blood glucose. Keeping track of what your child eats, insulin dosages given and blood sugar levels throughout the day can help his doctor or dietitian adjust his diet as needed. Remember that kids grow and change, so dietary needs might alter rapidly, especially during growth spurts.
