Nutrition standards for juvenile diabetics

Diabetics and Nutrition

Having a child who is suffering from diabetes will require his/her parents to take good care of the nutrition and provide only meals which are adequate. Therefore, a complete reconstruction of common diet plans is necessary. However, this does not mean that the child will not be able to eat anything at all. Many normal types of food can be prepared and they only need to be made in a manner safe for diabetics to consume. Eating the right food is a must for juvenile diabetics since, this way, they regulate their blood sugar and maintain its normal levels.

All this can be very hard for the parents initially, especially due to the fact that they may know nothing about diabetes and nutrition related to this condition. Therefore, they need to get informed on many different subjects. Still, taking into consideration that not necessarily all information found is good, they need to be careful as well. They are advised to use the enormous knowledge present in books and on the internet, but to choose the materials carefully.

A great start, when searching for an adequate diet for a diabetic child, is the American Diabetes Association which offers the pyramid of diabetic nutrition. Here, there are types of food classified in certain groups, making it much easier for a parent to organize a meal by knowing which of the ingredients are allowed, needed or necessary for maintaining the health of his/her child.

Diet Plan for Children Suffering fromDiabetes

The first group is starchy food which offers carbohydrates which are very healthy. So, whole grains, rye, black eyed peas, oats, corn and potatoes are all excellent to be turned into delicious meals and snacks for your child. As far as servings are concerned, everything from six to eleven will suffice. However, it is best to consult with a professional dietitianbeforehand.

Next come vegetables and fruits, being sources of vitamins, fiber and carbohydrates as well as many other nutrients. Two to five servings of each are recommended.

Three servings of milk a day can be excellent for your child since it is a great source of calcium and numerous vitamins. Still, you are best off by choosing low-fat milk since these products can be quite fatty.

We cannot imagine nutrition without proteins, minerals and amino acids. Lean meat and meat products are the best source of all these. So, keep the fat low, and nutritional values high for your child.

Finally, sweets, alcohol and excessive fat are all forbidden in a diet of a diabetic child.