Childhood diabetes and diet are two topics that raise many questions and sometimes fears in families because of their connection. What can a child with diabetes eat? Are there forbidden foods? How can food remain fun and healthy?
The truth is that, with updated information and a bit of creativity, the diet of a child with diabetes can be as varied and delicious as that of any other.
In this article, we tell you everything you need to know to take care of your little one's health without giving up flavor or joy at the table.
How do foods affect sugar levels?
Every time we eat, our body transforms food into energy. Understanding how different types of food affect blood sugar levels is fundamental, especially in cases of children with diabetes.
Carbohydrates, found in breads, fruits, pasta, and sweets, have the greatest impact on glucose. When a child consumes carbohydrates, their body converts them into glucose, which needs insulin to enter the cells and be used as energy.
In childhood diabetes, diet and carbohydrate control are key. It's not about eliminating them, but choosing the most appropriate ones and learning to combine them with proteins and healthy fats to avoid sharp sugar spikes.
Additionally, the fiber present in whole foods and vegetables helps slow glucose absorption, avoiding spikes that can be dangerous.
Importance of Carbohydrates in Diabetes
Carbohydrates are essential for the growth and development of children, even for those living with diabetes. These foods provide fiber, vitamins, and minerals, and help maintain stable blood sugar levels. The secret is balance: quality and the right amount. In the diet for childhood diabetes, it is recommended to choose whole carbohydrates such as whole wheat bread and brown rice, oats, legumes, and vegetables.
It is important to remember that every child is different. The amount of carbohydrates needed depends on their age, weight, physical activity, and energy needs. Therefore, it is always advisable to consult a nutritionist or medical team to personalize the diet.
Recommended Foods for Children with Diabetes
In childhood diabetes, the diet should be varied, balanced, and appealing. Now let's look at a list of recommended foods:
- Whole grains: Whole wheat bread, brown rice, oats, quinoa.
- Vegetables and greens: Broccoli, carrot, tomato, spinach, cucumber, lettuce.
- Fresh fruits: Apple, pear, orange, strawberries (in appropriate portions and preferably whole, not in juice).
- Legumes: Lentils, chickpeas, beans.
- Lean proteins: Chicken, turkey, fish, egg, lean meats.
- Low-fat dairy: Milk, natural yogurt, fresh cheese.
- Nuts and seeds: Walnuts, almonds, chia, flaxseed (in small amounts).
- Healthy fats: Olive oil, avocado, olives.
Remember to include at least one non-starchy vegetable in each meal and vary the dishes so that the food does not become monotonous.
Foods to Avoid
In the diet for childhood diabetes, there are no strictly forbidden foods, but some should be consumed very moderately:
- Sugar and bakery sweets: Cakes, candies, cookies, ice cream.
- Sodas and sugary drinks: Better to opt for water or unsweetened infusions.
- White bread, white rice, and refined pasta: They quickly raise blood sugar.
- Ultra-processed snacks: Potato chips, industrial pastries, sugary cereals.
- Fruit juices and canned fruits: It's better to choose whole fruit.
- Fast food and fried foods: They provide saturated fats and few nutrients.
The secret is balance. If there is a special occasion, a dessert can be enjoyed, as long as the insulin dose is adjusted and the rest of the day's diet is controlled.
Example menu for childhood diabetes
Organizing a weekly menu for childhood diabetes can greatly ease daily life and ensure a varied and nutritious diet. For example:
Breakfast:
- Semi-skimmed milk or natural yogurt
- Whole wheat toast with fresh cheese and tomato
- Fresh fruit (one serving)
Mid-morning:
- Fruit or a handful of nuts
Lunch:
- Stewed lentils with vegetables and chicken
- Lettuce, carrot, and cucumber salad
- Tangerine
Snack:
- Natural yogurt or milk
- Whole wheat biscote with peanut butter
Dinner:
- Vegetable cream soup (pumpkin, carrot, leek)
- Baked fish with potatoes and broccoli
- Sugar-free dessert
Although it is just an example, this menu can be adapted to each child’s tastes and needs. For children with diabetes, every bite counts: tasty variety + precise portions = energy without spikes.
Practical tips for everyday life
- Make your child the protagonist. Let them choose and prepare their food with you.
- Use healthy cooking techniques like boiling, steaming, grilling, or baking, avoiding frying and breading.
- Read product labels to identify hidden sugars and choose healthier options.
- Maintain regular meal and snack times to avoid sudden drops or spikes in blood sugar.
- Don’t forget the importance of hydration. Water should be the main drink.
Also, don’t lose sight of the importance of daily physical activity. Exercise helps control blood sugar and improves overall well-being.
Support and specialized products
Managing childhood diabetes goes far beyond diet and food. Daily glucose monitoring, insulin administration, and the use of medical devices are part of the routine.
To make your child feel safe and comfortable, at Glucody we offer solutions like the protective bracelet for the diabetes sensor, specially designed for active and curious children.
This device allows little ones to play, do sports, and enjoy themselves without worrying about the sensor detaching or getting damaged. Additionally, we offer a wide range of accessories and patches designed for daily life with diabetes.
Do you have questions about childhood diabetes, the recommended diet, or are you looking for products that make it easier to control and protect medical devices? Contact us at Glucody and discover how we can help your child live with total freedom, safety, and a big smile.