Although the basic principles of diet in diabetic patients remains the same, there are some special situations which require some modification.
Diabetic children are usually, underweight hence require extra calories to make up the weight loss. Initially, the child may be sick hence the food intake has to be gradually increased and evenly divided as small but frequent meals. The food should be easily digestible and nutritious.
Since the child has to maintain a normal growth and development, extra calories and proteins are needed.
Besides controlling diabetes, extra attention is required to monitor growth and development.
Since the patients are on insulin, single or multiple doses, diet should be planned in such a way that it should avoid hypoglycemic (low sugar) episodes and prevent sudden rise of blood sugar.
Children cannot be prevented totally to avoid sweets, ice-cream or cold drinks as it may make them socially conscious or an introvert. If properly explained and given the choice of alternatives, they may still maintain good control of diabetes without any social embarrassment. They should be encouraged to join picnic parties, outings and social functions. Diabetic camps give such confidence.
Children cannot be prevented from unscheduled physical activities like games, etc., therefore, to avoid hypoglycemia, an extra carbohydrate supplement must be ensured before it. A slight negligence may precipitate undesirable and risky hypoglycemia.
Although a set dose of insulin need not be changed from day to day, special precautions should be taken to avoid wider fluctuations of blood sugar level.
Children should be encouraged to practice minor modifications of both diet and insulin, of course, under supervision to give them confidence and independence.
If you skip meals or save part of a meal, your blood glucose will get out of control. So always try to stick to your meal plan.