Diabetes In Children

Diabetes in Children

Even children, like adults, are often diagnosed with diabetes. Most children with type 1 or juvenile diabetes who need insulin on a regular basis to maintain the functions of the body itself. There is a growing number of children who are now being diagnoses with type 2 diabetes has historically been found in adult populations.

Most facts about children and diabetes to light the importance of understanding this disease and find ways to effectively manage and control:

• One in every 300-450 children in the world have diabetes.
• Approximately 175,000 children in the United States under the age of 18 have diabetes.
• Type 1 or juvenile diabetes occurs when the immune system begins to generate cells that destroy pancreatic cells responsible for insulin production in the body. If the child does not receive insulin every day the child will die.
• 13,000 children are diagnosed with type 1 diabetes each year. These children are at increased risk of heart attack, stroke, kidney failure and immune complications throughout their lives.
• In type 2 diagnosis in adults is more common among children. It is a condition where the body is unable to use insulin, because it has developed a resistance to insulin. Over time, the pancreas does not produce enough insulin, and complications.
• Type 2 diabetes is more closely linked to obesity, especially if there is a history of diabetes in the family. It is also more common among African-American, Hispanic, Asian, and Native American children.

control of diabetes in children

Like adults, children with type 2 diabetes will need to closely monitor both their food intake and amount of exercise they perform every day. Although not necessary to remove all their favorite foods, it is important to teach children the concepts of portion control and healthy eating. Often in today's culture there are so many things to do in a day as meals are often skipped or eaten on the run or in the car. Fast foods are not a good substitute for fruit and vegetables, lean meats and whole grains.

Try to plan so that your child has time to sit down for a balanced meal as often as possible, ideally three times a day. Try to include whole grains, fiber, lean meats, fish, dairy products and fruits and vegetables. To get children to eat healthily try the following:

• Trail mix, including a variety of nuts, dried soy nuts, dried fruit instead of chips.
• Granola bars instead of cookies or donuts.
• whole grain bread instead of white bread.
• Carrots and celery instead of French fries
• Cook foods instead of frying
• Salads with meals or as an aperitif before dinner
• raw vegetables or fruit dipped in yogurt

Remember that modeling healthy lifestyles will help your children learn. Exercise together as a family. Go for a bike ride, walk, or go to the park and have fun together. Small changes in lifestyle can lead to major changes in health conditions over time. Start small and work together as a family to reach your diet and exercise objectives.