Juvenile diabetes information

Do children suffer from Diabetes? How does one deal with it?
(23 Jan 2008)

Diabetes is a metabolic disorder caused by a low production of insulin (type 1) or due to the body’s inability to use the insulin produced efficiently (type 2). Juvenile diabetes is another name for the first type of diabetes as it is commonly found in children and adolescents. In this condition, the body experiences a loss of beta cells that are responsible for producing insulin which is essential for breaking down sugars into simpler forms and storing them in cells for producing energy later.

A drop in insulin levels leads to high blood sugar levels which increase the risk of nerve related disorders, renal disorders and cardiovascular problems. Stress, lack of exercise, obesity, and unhealthy dietary patterns aggravate the condition. Individuals suffering from juvenile diabetes often feel weak, tired, hungry, and thirsty. The condition is also accompanied by the need to urinate frequently, blurred vision, weight loss; reduction in the body’s healing capacity and at an advanced stage, leads to a loss of sensation.

Regular visits to the doctor and repeated monitoring of blood sugar levels will help in controlling the condition. The best known treatment for juvenile diabetes is injecting artificial insulin into the body, administered on a regular basis with a prescribed dosage. Diabetes is not curable, but the condition can be stabilized with appropriate care and awareness. A healthy diet, sufficient physical activity, adequate rest and regular medication can assist in reducing symptoms and preventing other complications that diabetes could lead to. Individuals suffering from juvenile diabetes should follow a strict schedule with healthy meals as this helps in regulating the blood sugar level. Fresh fruits and vegetables (especially in the raw form), nuts and dairy products are beneficial to those suffering from diabetes. Curry leaves, onions, garlic and fenugreek reduce blood sugar levels while adding flavor and aroma to the food. Bitter gourd is recommended for controlling the condition. Fats, oily foods and confectioneries should be avoided. Drinking plenty of water will help in preventing dehydration and reducing the accumulation of toxins. The use of honey is suggested instead of sugar and artificial sweeteners as it does not increase sugar levels. A teaspoon of pure aloe gel, taken early in the morning is believed to be effective in reducing high glucose levels in the blood. A 20-30 minute brisk walk or jog daily can do wonders in lowering blood sugar levels. Last, but not the least, the body needs sufficient rest in order to be able to function efficiently and recuperate from the day’s damage.

answered by M W on 9 Apr 2010, 12:06:26

Children and Diabetes

Believe it or not, children do get diabetes. Most of the time, children are born with this condition. Type I, also called juvenile diabetes, affects millions of children. In most cases, they will have to learn to live with the condition and will have to learn how to eat and monitor their blood sugar levels. If your child has diabetes, then you need to teach your child all you can about their disease.

Understanding Diabetes: The first thing you will want to do when your child has diabetes is to make sure that you understand the disease yourself. The more you know about the condition, the better off you will be when you talk to your child. Your child needs to understand that this condition will affect them for a lifetime and that they will need to learn to monitor the way they feel on their own. However, when your child is armed with information and understands how to monitor their condition, they will be closer to living a normal life.
The struggles of Type I Diabetes: There are certain struggles when children are diagnosed with diabetes. First off, children will not feel well until their condition is under control. They will also have to learn how to deal with injections and changing diets. Your child will have to learn to say no to surgery snacks and treats. This may also be hard for your child to deal with situations at school and at friend’s homes. When your child learns what he or she can and cannot eat, these situations will be easier for them to deal with. Another struggle children have when suffering from diabetes is learning how and when they will need monitoring and injections. Your child’s school will also need to be informed about the condition as well.

Diabetes in children is quite common, but fortunately, children learn quickly and will learn how to deal with their disease.

answered by A K on 23 Jan 2008, 5:39:43

Juvenile diabetes information

Do children suffer from Diabetes? How does one deal with it? (23 Jan 2008)

Do children suffer from Diabetes? How does one deal with it?
(23 Jan 2008)