Diabetes among young people is a growing concern in the US and globally. Recent research published in Nature Journal reports alarming statistics. Type 1 diabetes incidence among adolescents and young adults was 7·78 per 100,000 population as of 1990. The number increased significantly to reach 11·07 per 100,000 population in 2019.
Managing diabetes in children can be a complex and emotional journey. Imagine always keeping an eye on your child’s sweet intake and stopping them every time you see them sneaking candy or ice cream. Even the normal diet they consume can have culprits.
Whether dealing with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, parents need to go the extra mile with their child’s health and well-being. We will help you by sharing some actionable strategies to effectively manage diabetes and help your child lead a normal life.
Be Educated and Aware
Diabetes in children can be sneaky, catching you unaware as a parent. However, being educated and aware can give you a head start. Learn about the specific type of diabetes your child is suffering from. Gather information about symptoms, treatment options, and potential complications.
According to Diabetes UK, Type 1 diabetes in children has symptoms like frequent thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, and weight loss. These are visible rapidly, usually within weeks of developing the condition. The symptoms for Type 2 diabetes are the same, but they may appear only after months.
You can get valuable information from healthcare providers, diabetes organizations, and support groups. Besides being aware, you must encourage your child to participate in their own care over the years. Teach them to understand carbohydrate counting, monitor blood sugar levels, and recognize the signs of high and low blood sugar.
Create a Structured Diabetes Management Plan
Awareness is a good start, but you must follow your healthcare provider’s advice to manage diabetes in your child. A personalized Diabetes Management Plan (DMMP) created by an expert can be a game-changer. This plan outlines their target blood sugar ranges, dietary and exercise guidelines, and insulin regimen.
Working with a pediatric nurse is a good option if you want continuous care without waiting for appointments. Among various types of pediatric nurses, an endocrinology nurse is qualified to help children with diabetes.
According to Holy Family University, a pediatric endocrinology nurse specializes in hormone-related health issues including diabetes. Professionals can train with an accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing, and later pursue specialization in endocrine disorders to take up this role.
The CDC recommends ensuring that school staff are familiar with the DMMP. Schools must train teachers and caregivers for blood sugar monitoring and insulin administration during school hours. Communicate your child’s condition to the school personnel to keep them safe at school.
Develop Healthy Eating Habits
A balanced diet is a reliable element of effective diabetes management. HealthyChildren.org notes that parents should include a minimum of five servings of fruits and veggies in their child’s daily diet. The best options are high-fiber foods such as brown rice, whole-grain pasta, cereals, corn, and peas.
A registered dietitian can help you create a meal plan with nutritious foods. They also ensure that the plan includes occasional treats. Teaching children about portion sizes and carbohydrate counting is as important as educating them about informed food choices.
Make mealtime a family affair by planning and cooking together. As a parent, you must also model good dietary choices. Also, never use food as a reward or punishment; rather, foster a positive relationship with food.
Encourage Physical Activity
Besides the right diet, you must ensure adequate exercise for a child struggling with diabetes. Physical activity helps control weight and improves insulin sensitivity, both being crucial to managing the condition. Your child should work out for at least an hour daily, with activities like walking, biking, swimming, or playing sports.
At the same time, keep track of how exercise affects blood sugar levels. You can do it by checking their blood sugar before, during, and after physical activities. This practice enables you to adjust carbohydrate intake or insulin doses according to activity levels. Further, it can be helpful in preventing hypoglycemia.
Address Emotional Well-Being
According to Medical News Today, diabetics are twice or thrice at the risk of developing depression. This happens because they struggle with the additional responsibility and burden of managing their lifestyle to stay healthy.
Providing emotional support to your child is an essential part of diabetes management for parents. You can do it by validating their emotions. Normalize feeling frustrated or anxious about their health condition because it is a part of the journey.
Consider seeking professional support from a mental health provider if the emotional burden seems too much to handle. Support groups or diabetes camps can offer much-needed peer support and coping strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the indications of high or low blood sugar in children?
Watch out for red flags indicating high or low blood sugar in children because both can be dangerous. Increased thirst, frequent urination, blurred vision, and fatigue indicate high blood sugar (hyperglycemia). On the other hand, low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) may manifest in the form of shakiness, sweating, confusion, irritability, or dizziness.
How can a child be helped to handle the emotional implications of diabetes?
Do not overlook the emotional impact of diabetes in the first place. Encourage your child to express their feelings and be open to listening patiently. Engage them in activities they enjoy to help reduce stress. You may participate in peer groups or seek professional guidance if needed.
How early should I seek pediatrician support for my child’s diabetes management?
Diabetes in children is a real threat, requiring prompt medical attention. Consult your pediatrician if your child experiences frequent episodes of high or low blood sugar. Also, pay attention to the signs of emotional distress related to their condition. Regular check-ups are required to adjust treatment plans from time to time.
As a parent, you may worry about a child living with diabetes. Of course, your stress is valid, but timely intervention and appropriate treatment can make life smooth for your kid. Be proactive about their health and seek professional guidance and support to make the road ahead easier.
