Although children are typically diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, caused by the body's inability to produce insulin -- a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels -- more children are being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. The increasing prevalence of diabetes in children seems to correlate with the rise in childhood obesity. A regular diet of fast food can cause a child to be overweight, increasing the risk of diabetes and related health problems.
Childhood Obesity
Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body does not produce enough insulin, or the cells fail to react to the hormone. Once common among individuals older than age 40, more adolescents and teens are now suffering from this form of the disease, which is frequently related to obesity. Mary Savoye-Desanti, a registered dietitian and research associate in the pediatric department at Yale School of Medicine, points out that more 10-, 11- and 12-year-olds are overweight, putting them at higher risk for developing diabetes. Poor diet and lack of exercise are being blamed for the increase in childhood obesity.
Fast Foods
Eating too many foods high in trans fat, saturated fat and calories is unhealthy, as these contribute to obesity. Fast foods don't always make a child feel full either, so he is more likely to overeat. What's more, foods that contain too much sugar aren't good for blood glucose levels. The truth is many parents rely on fast foods because they are an inexpensive, quick, easy and convenient way to serve up a meal. Unfortunately, most fast foods are high in fat, sugar and sodium content while offering little nutritional value. Medical and parenting consultant Dr. William Sears recommends feeding your child freshly-prepared, low-fat, unsweetened and low-sodium foods from the start. This might help limit his desire for junk food as he grows.
Preventing Diabetes
Not feeding children fast food is good for blood sugar levels and prevents health-related complications. Avoid taking your children to fast food chains for meals. Cook healthy meals at home instead. Cut down on the sugar and fat in your child's diet. Pack your child's lunches for school, and don't give her snacks that contain hydrogenated oils, soft drinks and sugary fruit punches or juice drinks. Feed your child foods that contain the protein she needs for energy. Fish has plenty of protein, but is low in saturated fat. Vegetables, fruits and whole grains are high in the fiber that can help lower your child's blood glucose level.
Healthier Alternatives
If your child still craves fast food from time to time, healthy alternatives are available. Instead of ordering a pizza with extra cheese and pepperoni, opt for lower-fat toppings such as mushrooms, green peppers, onions or other flavorful vegetables. Encourage your child to eat grilled chicken with extra lettuce and tomatoes on a whole grain roll in place of a beef burger. Skip the french fries and go with a baked potato, corn on the cob, green salad or apple slices on the side. Suggest that your child eat a yogurt parfait rather than drink a milkshake. When ordering subs or deli sandwiches, choose lean ham, chicken or turkey breast on whole-grain bread. Select Swiss or mozzarella cheese instead of American or cheddar.
References
- CBSNews.com; "Fast Food, Fat Children"; Thalia Assuras; February 2009
- AskDrSears.com; "Shaping Young Tastes"; William Sears
- Mayo Clinic; "Fast Foods --- 5 Ways to Healthier Meals"; Mayo Clinic Staff; May 2010
- Helpguide.org; "Tips for Making Healthier Fast Food Choices"; Maya Paul et al; September 2010
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