How to Help Manage a Child’s Diabetes
If your child has type 1 (T1D) or type 2 diabetes (T2D), they can still be healthy and active. With the right care, they can be as healthy as anyone else.
Diabetes can be managed with medical care and self-care. This usually includes checking glucose levels, taking insulin or other medicines, eating healthfully, being active, and getting health check-ups.
Following is an overview of diabetes care. It is not a substitute for medical advice. Always follow your doctor's instructions. If you think your child may have diabetes, talk to their primary care provider.
Monitoring
Children with diabetes usually need to check their glucose levels at home. This can be done with a blood glucose meter or a continuous glucose monitor. People with T1D or those with T2D who use insulin need to check their glucose levels often to decide how much insulin to take. Those with T2D who do not use insulin may not need to check as often.
People with T1D or T2D may also need to check for ketones in their urine or blood sometimes.
Medications
Insulin therapy is the only treatment for T1D. People with T1D need to take insulin because their bodies do not make it anymore. They may take insulin with multiple daily injections or an insulin pump.
For T2D, insulin may be used to help the body use its own insulin better. Some people with T2D may need insulin for a short time, while others may need it for life. Some people with T2D may not need insulin at all.
Other medicines can be used to manage T2D in adults and children. Your diabetes care provider will help decide which medicines are best.
Healthy Diet
All children need a balanced diet to grow and stay healthy. This includes a mix of carbohydrates (carbs), fats and proteins. Healthy carbs are found in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes (like beans, peas, lentils, etc.) and milk. Even treats can be part of a healthy diet.
Carb Counting For T1D - Insulin doses are often matched to the amount of carbs eaten. This is called carb counting. Caregivers learn how to count carbs and give the right amount of insulin. Tools like food labels, apps and books can help.
Foods with Carbs
- Starches: Bread, cereal, pasta, rice, potatoes, corn, peas, crackers, popcorn
- Fruits: Fresh, frozen, canned, juices
- Milk: Milk, yogurt
- Others: Cakes, cookies, candy, chips, ice cream, jams, regular soda
People with T2D may also use carb counting or have set insulin doses for meals. If they do not use insulin, they may limit carbs to help manage glucose levels.
Physical Activity
Being active is important for everyone, including people with diabetes. Exercise helps with heart health, muscle strength, well-being, insulin sensitivity and weight. Activity can affect glucose levels, so people with diabetes may need to adjust their care before, during and after exercise. Your diabetes care team will teach you how to do this.
Health Screenings
High glucose levels over time can cause serious health problems. Regular check-ups for eye, kidney, blood pressure and cholesterol are important. Your diabetes care team will help make sure you get the necessary screenings.
Healthy Coping
Living with diabetes can be challenging. Feelings of anxiety, depression, guilt, confusion, sadness and anger are common and can be felt by people with diabetes and their caregivers. Learning to cope with these feelings is important. Support is available for those who need help. Talk to your diabetes care team if needed.
