Diabetes, especially type 1 diabetes, is a chronic condition that can occur at any age without a specific cause. It is commonly seen in children between the ages of seven and 12.
Well, type 1 diabetes is not a direct result of over-consuming sweets. Many experts say that it can also be genetic. Regardless of the reasons, as a diabetic child ages, they must learn to take responsibility for managing the condition and accept that if not controlled at the right time, it can lead to complications.
Diabetes is a lifelong disease, the complications of which can be combated with good glycemic control (carbohydrates) and a consistent diet. One reason parents should try to teach diabetes management habits at a much earlier age. However, you may encounter some difficulties. Sometimes unpredictable changes in blood sugar can occur. Giving doses of insulin to children can be challenging, especially if a child does not feel like eating or is simply a picky eater. During these times when children are eating less than necessary, care must be taken with the dose of insulin administered to avoid the risk of hypoglycemia.
When children are sick and unwell, their appetites tend to decrease. Overall, a decrease in carbohydrate consumption and an increase in body temperature can reduce the need for insulin in the body. If a child suffers from diarrhea, eat at least 15 g of carbohydrates with each meal. Activity level also tends to affect your body’s need for insulin. If the child is very active, make sure they lower their insulin dose or consume 15 g of carbohydrates before each activity / game.
Remember that hormonal changes can have a huge impact on insulin needs in children. Doses can be increased during the growth spurt and puberty in girls. In such a case, have your insulin treatment checked by your doctor. During this time, blood sugar levels must be monitored.
The process of diagnosing diabetes cannot be completed within the first few days of diagnosis. However, there are some key points that should be understood by both parents and children …
• Be sure to have breakfast
• The need for vitamins, minerals, energy and protein is the same as for non-diabetic children.
• The child should never go hungry. You may need to eat between meals.
• Avoid too many sweets and sugary drinks at once.
• Limit children’s screen time to less than two hours a day.
• A child must be able to recognize symptoms of hypoglycaemia.
• Extra carbohydrates must be consumed before any activity, especially swimming. The foods should be manageable, easy to eat, and in quickly absorbable forms, such as candies, cookies, and energy bars.
• All children want to be part of a peer group. And a conscious attempt must be made to ensure that the child does not feel too different. Children should continue to be encouraged to eat with their friends at school.
• Children over the age of seven usually have fine motor skills to inject insulin themselves under adult supervision.
• Regular checkups by a diabetologist are important in treating type 1 diabetes in children.
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