Juvenile diabetes, also known as Type I diabetes, requires a special diet to manage the condition. Insulin injections are a requirement, but patients with juvenile diabetes must stabilize insulin levels with certain foods as well. A well-balanced diet can contribute a great deal to keeping Type I diabetes under control.
Optimal Blood Sugar Range
Patients with juvenile diabetes have to consider their total calorie intake in relation to the amount of fats, carbs and proteins they consume. According to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, the optimal blood sugar range should be 70 to 110 mg/dL before meals. Consult your doctor for a change in the treatment plan if your blood sugar is consistently lower than 70 mg/dL or higher than 140 mg/dL.
Carbohydrates
Foods have a glycemic index, which describes how each can affect your insulin level. High-glycemic foods cause blood sugar levels to rise, while low-glycemic foods do not. The higher the number, the more likely it will cause insulin to spike. Examples of low-glycemic carbs include multigrain breads, oatmeal, brown rice and oat bran. Popular high-glycemic carbs include cupcakes, pastries, candy bars and sodas.
Fats
Fats such as monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats should be part of the juvenile diabetes diet program. Avocados, sunflower seeds, walnuts and olive oil are some foods that contain these good fats. On the flip side, saturated and trans fats should be avoided. Many saturated fats are found in animal meats like beef and liver, while trans fats are found in commercial goods like chips and pastries.
Fiber
Fiber helps to stabilize insulin levels. It also helps cleanse excess insulin out of the bloodstream, decrease sugar absorption and helps you feel fuller longer after meals. Beans, lentils, apples, pears and whole-wheat pasta are all high-fiber foods.
