Being obese, weighing more than 85% of kids their age, sex, and height, or being heavier than 120% of what is healthy for their height.

a close family suffering from type 2 diabetes.

having high blood lipid (fat) levels or high blood pressure.

Teenage Years and Diabetes

Teenagers may experience particular difficulties controlling their blood sugar levels due to a variety of circumstances, such as hormonal changes associated with puberty. Additionally, lifestyle elements including peer pressure, higher activity levels, erratic schedules, body image issues, alcohol or tobacco experimentation, and eating problems all make blood sugar control harder for this age group.

In type 1 diabetes, symptoms normally appear within two to three weeks, sometimes even sooner, and are typically highly evident. Children who have high blood sugar levels urinate more than usual. So, as a result of this fluid loss, thirst and fluid intake increase. Dehydration in certain kids can result in a rapid heartbeat, drowsiness, and signs of weakness. Vision haze can also happen.

The best way to ensure children's long-term health and wellbeing is to prevent diabetes in them. There are a number of preventative actions that can dramatically lower the risk of children developing diabetes, even while some risk factors, such as family history and genetics, are out of our control. The following are some essential tactics for preventing diabetes in kids:

Promote a Balanced and Nutritious Diet: Encourage a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy products. Limit the consumption of sugary drinks, processed snacks, and high-fat foods. Incorporate healthy eating habits early on to establish a solid foundation for lifelong health.

Encourage Regular Physical Activity: Engage children in regular physical activities they enjoy, such as outdoor games, sports, swimming, dancing, or cycling. Aim for at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity every day. Limit sedentary behaviors, such as excessive screen time, and promote an active lifestyle.

Maintain a Healthy Weight: Help children achieve and maintain a healthy weight through a combination of a nutritious diet and regular physical activity. Obesity is a significant risk factor for developing type 2 diabetes, so it is important to encourage healthy habits that support weight management.

Foster a Supportive Family Environment: Create a supportive family environment that promotes healthy habits. Involve the entire family in making nutritious food choices and engaging in physical activities together. Encourage open communication and provide positive reinforcement to motivate children to adopt a healthy lifestyle.

Educate Children and Families: Teach children about the importance of a healthy lifestyle and the impact of nutrition and physical activity on their overall health. Educate families about the signs and symptoms of diabetes and the significance of regular check-ups and screenings.

Limit Sugary Drinks and Snacks: Minimize the intake of sugary drinks like soda, fruit juices, and energy drinks, as they can contribute to weight gain and increase the risk of diabetes. Instead, encourage water, unsweetened beverages, and whole fruits as healthier alternatives.

Emphasize Regular Health Check-ups: Schedule regular check-ups with a healthcare professional to monitor children's growth, development, and overall health. These visits allow for early detection of any potential risk factors or signs of diabetes.

Set a Good Example: As parents and caregivers, be role models for healthy behaviors. Children are more likely to adopt healthy habits if they see their loved ones practicing them consistently.

Create a Healthy Environment: Ensure that schools and childcare settings promote a healthy environment by providing nutritious meals and snacks, incorporating physical activity into the daily routine, and implementing wellness programs.

By implementing these preventive strategies, we can significantly reduce the risk of diabetes in children and empower them to lead healthy, active lives. Remember, prevention starts with early education, consistent support, and fostering a positive and health-conscious environment.