PREVENTION OF TYPE – 2 DIABETES IN CHILDREN
Children and teenagers can prevent or delay diabetes for many years. Small changes can make a difference. Even a small weight loss can prevent the onset of diabetes.
It is difficult to lose weight, especially if you do it alone. Then, include the whole family in your efforts. After all, a healthy diet to prevent diabetes is a healthy diet for everyone.
To lose weight through healthy food
Here are some healthy tips for you to try the whole family:
• Drink water. Limit sugary drinks such as soda, juices, caffeinated beverages and sports drinks. These drinks contain calories without offering any nutritional value.
• Eat more fruits and vegetables. If you can’t get fresh products, buy frozen and canned (in natural juice, not syrup). They are cheaper, easier to prepare and do not get ugly.
• Make healthy snacks easier to access. Put some grapes, carrots, or popcorn (pochoclo) on the kitchen table.
• Limit fast food — when choosing fast food, choose healthy foods.
• Choose salads with separate dressing
• Choose grilled foods instead of fried food
• Choose low-calorie soda or less fat milk
• Do not ask for mayonnaise
• Choose baked potatoes or apple slices instead of french fries
• Order a kid size meal so you can control his/her portions
• Learn about Plate Method: Fill half of your plate with non-starchy vegetables. Fill the other side of the plate (1/2) with lean protein and the rest with carbohydrates, such as rice or whole wheat noodles.
Lose weight through physical activity
• Limit the time you spend watching television or electronic products — no more than two hours per day. This includes television, computer, cell phone and video games.
• Get going: children and teenagers should do 60 minutes of exercise almost every day of the week. Here are some ideas for your family to have a more active life.
• Walk, ride a bike
• Turn up the sound of music and dance
• Walk outside, in a mall, in a park or in a museum
• Join the Christian Youth Association (YMCA) closest to you
• Get up stairs instead of using the elevator
• Get off the bus before bus stop, and walk until before reach your destination
• Park your car farther from the front door so you walk a little more
• Play interactive video games to stay active
• Walk while You are talking on the phone or watching TV
• Set goals: You and your child should set achievable goals. Reward your success with prizes that do not involve food (have a pajama party, watch a movie, go shopping, etc.).
Warning signs
Children and adolescents with Type-2 Diabetes often show no symptoms. However, keep in mind the common symptoms of Type-2 Diabetes.
• They are more thirsty than usual
• They wet the bed or urinate frequently
• Blurry vision
• Unusual fatigue
If you notice any of these symptoms in your child, call your medical provider.