Type 1 diabetes, also called juvenile diabetes, occurs in children and teens. If your child suffers from this type of diabetes, his body does not produce adequate insulin. Insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas, helps convert food into energy. Without insulin, sugar enters the bloodstream without restraint and elevates blood sugar levels. Most children and teens with type 1 diabetes require insulin treatment.
Water Weight
A symptom of juvenile diabetes includes frequent urination. This symptom can cause weight loss. Once your child begins insulin treatment, she will urinate less frequently and may gain some weight. In teens, this is typically seen as unwanted weight gain. Dieting to counteract this weight gain can be harmful. Not eating enough food can drastically lower your teen's blood sugar levels. Symptoms of low blood sugar levels are sweating, mood swings, clumsiness, headache, trembling and hunger. In order to restore healthy levels of blood sugar, your teen should eat something high in sugar.
Meal Plan
An important factor in managing diabetes is preparing a meal plan. This meal plan should include snacks to help maintain blood sugar levels. If your teen is concerned about his weight, keep snacks low in fat and high in whole grains, fruits and vegetables. Some weight-conscious snacks include 1 cup light popcorn, 3 celery sticks with 1 tablespoon peanut butter and 1 hard-boiled egg. Portion sizes are very important in both meals and snacks.
High Risk Weight Loss
The Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation International reports an alarming trend among teens with type 1 diabetes. Some body-conscious teens skip their insulin treatments in order to induce weight loss. Some do this before special occasions -- a school dance or graduation -- and some make this a regular habit. Skipping an insulin dose lowers the insulin in your teen's body, causing her to again urinate more frequently. Frequent urination causes weight loss. This has been called a new form of eating disorder. Reducing insulin can cause considerable harm to your teen.
Healthy Weight Loss
If your teen is concerned about her weight, consult your physician, a nutritionist or a dietitian. Traditional weight-loss methods are not recommended for those suffering from diabetes. Teens with diabetes not only require certain foods and nutrients for managing their diabetes, but also still require specific nutrients for proper growth and development. A professional will work with you and your teen to address your concerns in the healthiest way possible.
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