If your kid has been diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, you have an essential job to do. You have to take extra care of your child and check their blood sugar levels repeatedly. You have to check their blood sugar levels, give them insulin, and ensure they are eating the right foods so that their blood sugar level remains in a healthy range. Let’s discuss what type-1 diabetes is and how you can help children manage this condition in a better way.
What is Type-1 Diabetes?
Type 1 diabetes is a health complication in which our immune system destroys insulin-making cells in the pancreas. These cells are called beta cells. This condition is pretty common among children and young people.
Tips to Help Your Children Cope with Type-1 Diabetes
Here are a few tips on helping your children to manage diabetes in a better way.
1. Use the Right Accessories for Kids with Type-1 Diabetes
Another important consideration is using the right accessories for kids with type 1 diabetes. Plenty of accessories are specifically designed for kids with type 1 diabetes, such as diabetic belts, bellybands, harness insulin pumps, and other such things. These accessories help them become T1D heroes and make them feel like kids instead of diabetics.
2. Get Your Blood Sugar Tests Regularly
You must visit your doctor regularly to check your blood sugar levels checked. The doctor will let you know what the target numbers are and what is the best method for monitoring blood sugar levels. If blood sugar levels are high, the doctor may suggest you give insulin to your kid either by an injection or an insulin pump. The doctor will advise you on how much and when to give it.
3. Consume Healthy Meals as A Family
If your kid is diagnosed with diabetes, make sure your entire family is consuming healthy food as a whole. Your kids won’t feel like missing out if everyone changes their eating habits.
You can consult your doctor and ask if your kids can have their favorite foods on birthdays and other special occasions and whether they will need insulin after that or not. You must plan your kid’s meal and snacks before time to stay on track.
If your kids eat food at school, find out what the cafeteria is serving and what improvements can be made to their school lunch.
4. Regular Exercise
Make sure your kid actively participates in sports and other recreational activities. If your kid is active in sports, check their blood sugar levels before and after they begin a workout.
Exercise can affect blood sugar levels for up to 24 hours. Hence, they may need to take extra insulin or eat extra snacks to check their blood sugar levels. So, you must work with a doctor and prepare a healthy meal plan for your kids.
5. Keep Your Child’s School Updated
Prepare a medical management plan with the help of your child’s doctor. Provide a copy of this plan to the school. The plan should include what the school should do after every critical situation. You can include the following things in the plan.
- What treatment should the kids get when their blood sugar levels are too high or too low.
- Can the kids monitor blood sugar levels themselves?
- What are the guidelines for playing sports for kids based on their blood sugar levels and other factors?
Furthermore, your kids will need extra preparation for field trips and parties. Together you and your staff can help ensure your kid’s diabetes stays controlled.
Final Words
Type 1 diabetes is a severe health complication, especially for kids; however, it can be controlled if several preventive measures are taken. So, you must work with your doctor and prepare a plan for your kid to enjoy a prosperous life even after being diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. Using specific accessories for kids, doing regular exercise, and consuming healthy meals can help in managing diabetes in a better way.
