In 1999 to 2000, approximately 10.4 percent of American children ages 2 to 5 ranked above the 95th percentile for BMI or body mass index. A high BMI indicates a high percentage of body fat, which may classify the individual as overweight or obese. Overweight children with unmanaged blood glucose levels are at risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Knowing healthy blood glucose ranges for children will help you control your child's development of diabetes or its progression.
Diabetes
There are two forms of diabetes, type 1 and type 2. Type 1 diabetes usually presents in adolescent children and occurs when the body attacks insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. The body eventually stops producing insulin and the child will require an insulin pump; also known as being insulin dependent. Type 2 diabetes used to be considered an adulthood disease because overweight or obese adults over age 40 were diagnosed with the disease. As the obesity epidemic spread across America, children began to develop type 2 diabetes, which occurs when the body doesn't respond to or produces too little insulin to counteract elevated blood glucose levels. Medication to increase the body's production of insulin, exercise and a healthy diet can keep blood glucose levels balanced; however, type 2 diabetics who do not manage their blood glucose will eventually become insulin dependent and require insulin injections.
Hypoglycemia vs. Hyperglycemia
Parents who suspect their children of having type 1 or 2 diabetes should have them tested by their pediatrician. Children with diabetes may experience hypoglycemia, extremely low blood glucose levels, or hyperglycemia, extremely high blood glucose levels. Symptoms of hypoglycemia include extreme thirst, frequent urination and fatigue specifically after eating. Symptoms of hyperglycemia include hunger, dizziness, nausea, headaches, confusion, tremors or shaking and other symptoms. If blood glucose levels become extremely low or high, your child could fall into a diabetic coma, which may precede death.
Normal Ranges
According to the National Diabetes Education Program, children ages 6 and under are more susceptible to hypoglycemia; therefore, acceptable blood glucose ranges for this age group is differ from other age groups. Before meals, blood glucose levels should be between 100 and 180 mg/dl. Bedtime or overnight levels should be between 110 and 200 mg/dl. A1C measurements, which indicate average blood glucose levels over a two to three month period, should be between 7.5 and 8.5 percent.
Controlling Blood Glucose
If your child is pre-diabetic, you can control their blood glucose levels with a healthy diet that limits refined sugars, processed foods, saturated fats and simple carbohydrates. Some examples of these foods include table sugar, sodas, fruit juices, candy and other sweets. Include fiber, vegetables and lean, protein-rich meats into their daily diet to help them lose weight and manage their blood glucose. If your child is diabetic test their blood glucose regularly with a testing meter, administer their medication on time without missing doses and prepare healthy meals daily. Find ways to incorporate physical activity into their daily regimen; take them roller skating every Friday night with their friends or to the park to play on the playground. Make exercise entertaining and lead by example.
References
- National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse: National Diabetes Statistics, 2011
- National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse: Hypoglycemia
- Net Wellness: Type 2 Diabetes in Children - A Growing Epidemic
- National Diabetes Education Program: Overview of Diabetes in Children and Adolescents
- The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism: Obesity and Risk of Type 2 Diabetes and Cardiovascular Disease in Children and Adolescents
