While diabetes is a very common health condition around the world among adults, there has also been an unusual spike in the number of children and teenagers being diagnosed with diabetes including both Type 1 and Type 2. From poor lifestyle choices to incorrect eating patterns, such habits have led to an increase in diabetes among children. However, it becomes the responsibility of parents to look after the kids’ diet to manage their blood sugar levels. While a few tips can help to manage their diet, the following food items must be also included in the diet. This may not only manage the blood sugar levels but can also reduce the symptoms.
Tips for controlling blood sugar levels
That being said, parents must focus on including nutrients like carbohydrates and proteins to maintain blood sugar levels. A rise in blood sugar levels is usually caused by insulin imbalance in children, especially those who are struggling with obesity. Eating food high in calories, sugar, and fat can also raise their blood sugar levels, resulting in insulin resistance and reduced insulin sensitivity.
Considering the condition, given here is the list of the top six foods that should be included in your child’s diet.
1. Apple:
An apple the day keeps a doctor away! Well, this phrase seems to be quite accurate. Being high in fibre and vitamin C, apples contain polyphenols which have the potential to prevent Type 2 diabetes and heart diseases. Apart from that, the sugar or fructose in apples also has less of an effect on blood sugar levels in children. Thus, kids must be given can be given apple chunks to eat as snacks at regular intervals.
2. Carrot:
Parents should also include carrots in the diets for their kids suffering from type 2 diabetes as they are beneficial for their high content of carbohydrates. Despite having a sweet flavour, carrots help to manage blood glucose levels as they are non-starchy.
3. Food items with complex carbohydrates:
Food items containing complex carbohydrates should be also included in the diets of those suffering from diabetes. As the body takes more time to observe complex carbohydrates, they take longer time to digest and do not have any immediate effect on sugar levels. Food items like whole grains, brown rice, wild rice, oats, and food items resembling grains like quinoa are rich sources of complex carbohydrates. Children can be provided with vegetables like potatoes, sweet potatoes, beans, and legumes like kidney beans, lentils, and chickpeas in the diets.
4. Chia seeds:
One of the most popular items nowadays, chia seeds are something that kids will not willingly consume. However, if incorporated successfully, it can be beneficial for health. Chia seeds are rich in healthy fats, vitamins, and fibre and a few studies suggested that it helps to reduce blood sugar levels and also the risk of heart-related disease in people with diabetes.
5. Yoghurt:
A good source of protein, kids must be encouraged to consume yoghurt. As it also contains good bacteria, consuming yoghurt will help to ward off diseases. That being said, live organisms, also known as probiotics aid in defending against any kind of harmful bacteria.
6. Lean meat:
While processed meat is rich in fat and sugar, it should be avoided in the diets of kids with diabetes. However, parents can consider including lean meat like poultry and fish.
Apart from including all these food items, parents must also ensure that children indulge in regular outdoor playing, exercises, or yoga to maintain a healthy weight and keep their sugar levels under control.
