Summer Diet: Best Foods For Kids With Diabetes

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A lot of families find it difficult to maintain healthy eating habits during the summer, given that kids are out of school and their routines are disrupted. Summer activities make the days fun, but they can also make it difficult to maintain healthy eating habits - specifically for kids with diabetes.

As part of a routine eating plan, it is important for children and young people with diabetes to eat a variety of foods in order to promote good dietary habits [1].

Among children, type 1 diabetes is the most common type. It is not caused by what your child eats, nor does he or she have any control over whether or not the condition develops.

Although type 1 diabetes cannot be caused by diet, certain foods affect blood sugar differently, so it is important to keep an eye out for your children's consumption [2].

Read on to learn more about Summer Diet: Best Foods For Kids With Diabetes.

Summer Diet: Best Foods For Kids With Diabetes

In general, children can consume foods from all four food groups every day, including:

• Fruits and vegetables
• Cereals and bread
• Products made from milk
• Meats, poultry, seafood, eggs, legumes, nuts, and seeds that are lean

Carbohydrate-containing foods directly affect blood sugar levels, including:

• Fruits
• Grains like bread, rice and pasta
• Some dairy products like milk or yoghurt
• Starchy vegetables like potatoes and corn
• Sugary foods like candy or desserts

Therefore, as a parent, it is your responsibility to provide the best and healthiest summer foods for your diabetic kid.

Summer Foods For Diabetic Kids

1. Fruits

Children with diabetes should consume a variety of fruits as part of their diet.

Fruits such as apples, clementine oranges, and peaches are typically composed of approximately 15 g of carbohydrates per serving. Most summer fruits, including watermelon, cantaloupes, and raspberries, contain the same amount of carbohydrates [3].

Approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates are contained in two tablespoons of dried fruit without added sugar, such as cranberries, tart cherries, or raisins.

2. Vegetables

It is difficult for kids with picky eating habits to consume enough vegetables. Cucumbers, bell peppers, celery, broccoli and cauliflower can be cut into small pieces, making them a great snack choice [4].

In summer, avoid starchy vegetables because they contain a high level of carbohydrates.

3. Meat

Even though red meat is a good source of iron and protein, it is best to avoid it during the summer months. The body must work hard to digest and assimilate nutrients from meat, and it also increases body temperature, which is undesirable during the summer months [5].

4. Dairy

There is no doubt that dairy products such as cheese, yoghurt, and milk are a great source of nutrients for children, including calcium, potassium, and protein, as well as vitamin D. You should always read the nutrition facts on the label before consuming these foods.

In order to reduce the risk of heart disease in children with diabetes, the Diabetes Association (DA) recommends consuming a diet low in saturated fat during the day or in the summer.

Cold milk is more beneficial during the day in summer [6]. It reduces body heat and helps to cool the body from within, whereas if you want to drink milk at night, you should drink hot milk.

Can I Give My Diabetic Kid Sweets In Summer?

There is no doubt that children with diabetes wish to be like other children. One part of this is the occasional allowance of a serving of sweets in moderation. It is essential, however, to plan thoroughly.

Sweets must be included in the daily carbohydrate count and blood sugar levels must be closely monitored.

You should always consult your physician or a registered dietitian if you have questions regarding which foods are suitable for a child with diabetes.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.