Diabetes is a disease that occurs when one’s blood sugar levels are high. The disease is also becoming alarmingly common worldwide, not just in adults, but also in children. The number of children being diagnosed with both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes is shockingly rising. So, on account of World Diabetes Day and Children’s Day falling on the same day, we got in touch with Paediatric & Adolescent Endocrinologist Dr I.P.S. Kochar to talk to us about Diabetes in children and how it can be prevented, controlled or cured. Dr Kochar has got 16-years of experience in the field of Paediatric & Adolescent Endocrinology and is currently working as the Senior Consultant Paediatric & Adolescent Endocrinologist at Apollo Hospital.
Hello Doctor, can you briefly explain to us what is diabetes, especially diabetes in children?
Diabetes is basically increased sugar levels in the blood because of the lack of proper functioning of the pancreas which is an endocrine gland responsible for producing insulin. There are different types of diabetes. Type 1 diabetes is caused due to the deficiency of insulin. Type 2 diabetes, on the other hand, is caused due to the body’s resistance to insulin. Type 1 diabetes is more common in children, however recently, even Type 2 diabetes has become quite common among children. In case of Type 1 diabetes, whenever a child consumes carbs in any form, the sugar levels in his/her blood rises causing symptoms such as increased urination, feeling thirsty more often, weight loss, not eating properly, feeling lethargic and girls might even get some infections in the vaginal area etc. In the last few years, diabetes has become more and more common among children.
Which children are more prone to diabetes than others?
If the parents are type 1 diabetic, there’s a higher chance of the child being a Type 1 diabetic too. Also, girls who have polycystic ovaries are more prone to Type 2 diabetes which is more common in the adolescent age group. But otherwise, in general, it’s very difficult to predispose which child is more likely to be diabetic and which child isn’t. So there are these genetic predispositions and environmental and lifestyle factors which result in diabetes but mostly you can’t point out which child is more likely to get it and which child is not.
How can parents identify that their child has diabetes or is pre-diabetic?
It’s very important to understand what causes Type 1 diabetes and to be aware of your child’s bodily functions because many times parents get late in figuring out that their child is diabetic. So if you notice your child passing a lot of urine or if the child suddenly starts wetting the bed, the child feels thirsty more often than usual, is getting tired really quickly and is always feeling lethargic, there are repeated infections or if the child is losing a lot of weight, you need to get his/her sugar tested.
What risks are associated with diabetes, especially in children?
For children who are Type 2 diabetic, one of the major risks is obesity. Apart from that, as we all know, over time diabetes can be harmful to the heart, kidneys and nerves – causing chronic problems and early death.
What are the major causes of diabetes in children?
When it comes to Type 1 diabetes, it’s difficult to pinpoint the exact cause but of course family history, having a lot of sweets, lots of juices with added preservatives etc. can be a cause. However, along with family history, putting on a lot of weight, eating junk and inactivity are the major causes of Type 2 diabetes.
Can it be prevented in children?
As far as Type 2 diabetes is concerned, yes, it can be prevented. A healthy diet, regular exercise, and maintaining the body weight can help prevent Type 2 diabetes. But, unfortunately, there’s no way to prevent Type 1 diabetes from occurring.
And what is the cure for the different types of diabetes?
There is no cure for Type 1 diabetes, it can only be controlled by taking insulin as prescribed and by keeping the blood sugar in check. You must also undertake some lifestyle changes such as regular exercise and healthy food habits.
For Type 2 diabetes, lifestyle modification is important. Eating healthy, controlling the carb intake, choosing foods with a low glycemic index, ensuring regular exercise, controlling stress levels and monitoring the blood sugar.
What kind of dietary and lifestyle changes would you suggest for children who have diabetes or who want to keep it at bay?
Children who have Type 2 diabetes, they should get at least 30-45 minutes of exercise on a regular basis. They should avoid eating too much sweet and canned foods with preservatives. They need to ensure a balanced diet.
Same with the children with Type 1 diabetes, regular exercise, staying active, having a balanced diet and also taking insulin as prescribed and monitoring their blood sugar levels. Children with both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes should avoid junk food.
Lastly, any superfoods/juices you recommend to prevent diabetes in children?
There are no particular superfoods or juices recommended for preventing diabetes. Just ensure a balanced diet, regular exercise, maintain the weight and have a healthy lifestyle.
Featured Image Source: Medical News Today
