Glucose is the primary energy source that is formed by breaking down the food we eat. It provides energy to be active throughout the day. The glucose from the blood is absorbed by cells with the help of insulin. Diabetes in children is caused when the pancreas fails to produce enough insulin. A child with diabetes will have low energy levels; in the case of Type-1 diabetes, they can also develop complications with the eyes, nerves, and heart. However, dietary and lifestyle changes to manage diabetes is very important.

How to Manage Blood Sugar Levels?
When the pancreas does not produce enough insulin, the sugar level rises in the blood. This affects many organs and body parts of the body. It can damage kidneys, heart, eyes, and nerve functions. A regular blood test needs to be done to check for sugar levels in your child. It should remain moderate as advised by the pediatrician. Apart from regular check-ups, some dietary and lifestyle changes to manage diabetes is very important.

What to Eat?
Consult a pediatrician or a dietician to get a clear idea of meal options for your child. Ensure the child is given a balanced diet with high nutrient content. Here are a few tips on eating healthy and managing sugar levels.

• Fruits and vegetables need to be consumed at least five times a day.
• High-fiber foods such as corn, brown rice, peas, whole-grain pasta, cereals, sweet potatoes, and bread should be included in a child’s daily diet.
• Avoid high-fat products and choose fat-free or low-fat products such as salsa, low-fat sour cream, grated low-fat parmesan cheese, low-fat yogurt, and grated low-fat salad dressing.
• Include lean meats in your child’s diet such as fish, lean beef, lean pork cuts, and skinless chicken or turkey.
• Avoid trans fats made from sunflower, olive, corn, or canola oil. Instead, use healthy oils such as olive oil and canola oil.
• Avoid oil fries and use oil sprays to toss vegetables
• Adapt to fat-free cooking methods, cook meat and poultry by steaming, grilling, baking or poaching techniques.
• Eat local and seasonal fresh fruits

Lifestyle Changes to Manage Diabetes

• Staying active is the best way to manage diabetes. Support your children to stay active for 1 hour a day. Allow them to play active games with their friends.
• You can play fun-filled family activities that help in burning calories.
• Reduce computer and television hours and encourage interactive hours by playing with your children.
• Encourage regulated meals and bedtime.
• Maintain an activity log. An activity log is used to track the exercises and activities done during the day by the child. There are many online applications available to record daily activities.
• Spend enjoyable and quality time with your child. Show the child the whole family cares for him and enjoys spending time with him. Playing active sports with diabetic children encourages them to take part in sports or other active games.
• A safe and cleaner environment is very important for a child to grow healthy. Encourage cleanliness and hygiene in children.