The presence of type 2 diabetes in young children and teens can lead to additional health complications as they grow older, particularly cardiovascular and renal diseases. Here are some of the key factors in planning a diet for a child or young adult with Type 2 Diabetes.

The food that is unhealthy and not recommended for others is unhealthy for them too. It is important to understand the nutrition and diet charts given to you by your child’s nutritionists and doctors. The carbohydrate, calorie, and sugar levels that are ideal will be explained clearly.

Spend some time to understand the calorie count and nutrition information so that you can keep a tab on the serving and portion sizes. Make a note of the permissible amount of sugar, trans fat, hydrogenated fats, and additives; if it is over and above the prescribed limits, avoid them completely. This article lists some type of foods to avoid with type 2 diabetes in kids.

Avoid food that can lead to weight gain
Children are naturally attracted to foods that are high in sugar and carbohydrates. Peer pressure, easy availability, and convenience get them addicted to junk food. With time and patience, we can help the children learn to avoid eating food that’s high on complex carbohydrates and low on nutrition. They should be slowly weaned away from pizza, burgers, fries, and rich dairy products. You can make homemade healthy alternatives from whole grain, or bake fries and make milkshakes with non-dairy alternatives.

Trans fats
Trans fats do not increase blood sugar levels, but can cause insulin resistance, and lead to fat accumulation in the abdomen and cause an increase in BMI. For kids who are obese, it can increase the risk of heart-related conditions.

High carb foods
High carb foods are one more category of foods that are dangerous to young kids and adolescents. These foods can directly and quickly increase blood sugar and decrease brain function. If the child or young adult is unsupervised, a sudden spike in sugar levels can cause serious health complications and put them at risk. High carb foods are also low on protein and fiber and hence do not add to nutrition. White bread, pasta, white rice, among others, should be avoided. Kids should be trained to eat healthy variations of the same.

Breakfast cereal
Breakfast is an important meal for everyone. It is natural that people with type 2 diabetes go through sugar level surges when they are sleeping or early in the morning. Hence, do not feed young children and adolescents any breakfast with additional sugar as it can affect them at school. Even if they are having medication regularly, do not feed them breakfast cereal. Read the product information carefully, as even diabetic-friendly cereals can contain hidden sugars.

Natural alternatives to sugar
It is quite natural for many to be under the misconception that only white sugar is harmful and natural sugar is good for type 2 diabetes. However, that is not the case. Natural sugars like brown sugar, honey, and maple syrup can also increase blood sugar levels and should be avoided.

Fried and packaged snacks
Snacks are a major part of a young adult’s diet. Chips, fries, pretzels, crackers, candy, and pastries are their comfort food if they are stressed with school work. These snacks contain a lot of refined flour and salt. They can cause an increase in sugar levels. Children should be encouraged to have fruits or nuts when they are hungry.