Reducing the Risk of Diabetes in Children
By Lana Bandoim
More children are developing type 2 diabetes and dealing with the complications linked to this disease. Obesity is an issue for many kids, and there is a connection between weight and type 2 diabetes. Pay attention to the following tips that may reduce the risk of diabetes in children.
Weight
Children who are overweight are at a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes. It is important to help them eat a healthy diet and maintain a normal weight for their age and height. More kids are embracing the sedentary lifestyle, and this makes it difficult to lose weight.
Set an example by making every family member eat healthy meals. Teach kids about nutrition and weight management. However, avoid emphasizing a particular body type or encouraging eating disorders. It is important for children to have a healthy body image as they grow up.
Exercise
Whether they spend hours on social media or watch television after school, children rarely get enough exercise. However, an active lifestyle can help prevent type 2 diabetes. Encourage kids to participate in school sports or activities after school. Try to find fun games that they enjoy doing on a regular basis.
Although kids need about 60 minutes of exercise per day, it does not have to happen at the same time. You can break up the workouts into smaller pieces, so it is easier for them to complete. For example, have them spend 10 minutes cleaning their rooms in the morning, 20 minutes playing outside and 30 minutes playing sports with friends.
Get Tested
It is important not to ignore the symptoms of type 2 diabetes in children. Common symptoms include increased thirst, fatigue, weight loss and vision problems. Children may also have wounds that heal slowly, and have more infections. A family history of diabetes can increase the risk that kids will get the disease.
If you notice these symptoms, then get the children tested for diabetes. A blood sugar test can help determine if type 2 diabetes is present. Then, you can work with the doctor to make additional lifestyle changes to help the children. In addition, medications may be necessary, and children will have to learn how to track their blood sugar.
Type 2 diabetes is a growing concern for many children, so it is important to reduce the risk of this disease. Consider these tips and talk to a doctor about other preventive measures. Make health a priority for the kids and the entire family.
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Anderson, S.C.