Prevention of Type 2 Diabetes in Children?
Together We Can!
The Biggest Risk for Type 2 Diabetes?
OBESITY and OVERWEIGHT
WHY?
Extra body weight blocks the action of insulin. This forces the pancreas (the organ that makes insulin) to work harder until it wears out.
Type 2 Diabetes
In the U.S., this disease is the biggest concern in overweight and obese children. Pediatricians are seeing more diabetes of this type in pre-teens and teens than ever before and excess weight is the reason.
PREVENTION?
1. Start Early with healty eating and regular activity.
2. Limit TV and video game time.
3. Eliminate sweetened beverages.
These 3 Goals will singlehandedly change your child’s weight path.
TREAT THE RISK?
YES!
1. Our goal is to slow weight gain while growth continues.
2. This can result in a normal BMI and reduced risk
3. If a child already has a BMI of 30 or greater, we have to accomplish weight loss.
Energy Deficit is Required
This means eating FEWER calories each day.
The recommended intake varies by age.
Here are some healthy menus to follow
MEDICATION
If Your Child has a BMI > 30
Medication Is Likely Essential.
Children with a BMI > 30 have a very difficult time ever loosing enough weight to lower their health risk.
Delaying treatment means they have a very high chance of developing type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease.
New Medications Are Available.
A new category of appetite control medicine that includes liraglutide and semaglutide is now available for children as young as 12 years!
