Managing diabetes in children

No parent wants to hear the news that their child has a health problem, least of all diabetes. Unfortunately, as global statistics show, childhood diabetes is on the rise. 

Last year, the CDC in America published a report which highlighted that diagnosed cases of Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes have escalated in people under the age of 20 by 45-90% respectively. 

In South Africa, we’re not doing much better. Information from the Wits University Donald Gordon Medical Centre says, “Children are presenting with diabetes at an ever-increasing rate and at younger and younger ages. Type 1 diabetes is the most commonly encountered form of diabetes present in children, but Type 2 diabetes (adult onset, non-insulin dependent) is now present in adolescence and childhood associated with the obesity epidemic and is prevalent in certain ethnic groups.” 

So, this is an issue that can’t be ignored. 

Why the surge? 

Unhealthy food, unhealthy lifestyle and genetic markers play important roles in the rise of diabetes. Obesity is a huge risk factor and it’s increasingly common for kids to be overweight and even obese as they hit their teenage years. 

In South Africa, it’s estimated that more than 13% of kids between ages six and 14 years are classified as overweight or obese. Children aren’t eating the right foods or getting enough exercise, and this is contributing to the diabetes pandemic.

Managing diabetes in children 

When it comes to Type 2 diabetes, there’s a lot that you, as a parent, can do to manage your child’s condition. First and foremost is getting their diet and exercise to a good place. 

If your child is showing symptoms of frequent thirst, urination and abnormal weight gain, take them to the doctor for an official diagnosis. The doctor will prescribe some lifestyle changes including a healthy diet that cuts back on sugary and processed foods which are known to spike insulin levels.

With that in check, get your child into a regular exercise programme. You can all do it as a family to make it inclusive. Go for walks every day or cycle together around the neighbourhood. If there’s a public pool nearby, you can all go swimming a few times a week. 

The medication for diabetes will likely include insulin, which is used to bring down the excess sugar in the blood. Learn as much as you can about insulin management and ensure that your child receives his medication as the doctor has prescribed. 

It’s important that you demystify the condition for your child’s understanding. There’s no need to scare them with reams of medical information and statistics. Explain the condition in age-appropriate terms while taking care to stress the importance of getting healthy and fit to combat diabetes. 

With Type 1 diabetes, it’s about making sure that your child’s blood sugar levels are kept in the normal range. This will involve medication. You will need to check their levels a few times a day and administer the medication as necessary. 

Don’t forget to ensure your child gets regular check-ups.

Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only. Always check with your doctor or medical practitioner about any health concerns, before embarking on any fitness or nutrition programme, and usage of any medication.