Diabetes In Kids: Expert Explains How Early Eating Habits Shape Lifelong Health

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As childhood obesity and unhealthy diets rise in India, poor eating habits from an early age can lead to diabetes later in life. Yes, diabetes has become increasingly common in kids. Many school-going children are also now struggling with it. Diabetes in children needs timely management to improve the quality of life.

We spoke to Dr Prashant Laxmanrao Ramtekkar, Consultant Paediatrician and Neonatologist, Motherhood Hospitals, Lullanagar, Pune, who shed light on how parents need to concentrate on healthy eating habits and exercise to make a healthy life for kids.

Diabetes Is No Longer an Adult-Only Problem

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"Diabetes is not confined to elderly people anymore, but children are also being affected at an alarming rate. In India, the number of young people developing Type 2 diabetes is increasing each year because of unhealthy food choices, lack of physical activity, and long hours spent on screens. So, this worrying trend is a result of modern lifestyles, where fast food and sugary snacks have replaced home-cooked meals and outdoor play," explained Dr Ramtekkar.

Moreover, India is already known as the diabetes capital of the world, with millions living with the condition. So, if the poor eating habits continue, then the next generation could face diabetes even earlier in life.

How Poor Diets Increase Diabetes Risk in Children

"Today, many children are regularly consuming processed foods, sweetened drinks, and fried snacks. Such foods are high in calories but devoid of necessary nutrients. This culminates in instances of weight gain, insulin resistance, as well as an increased potential for developing Type 2 Diabetes. Such unhealthy eating habits, which are practiced in childhood, tend to continue even in adulthood. Hence, it is essential that interventions occur at a young age," shared Dr Ramtekkar.

The Role of Parents in Prevention

Parents have a vital role in instilling a healthy relationship with food in a child. Having a healthy environment can do wonders in keeping a child protected from a condition like diabetes. Little changes in one's daily life make a huge difference.

Practical Tips to Encourage Healthy Eating Habits

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Follow these expert recommended tips:

• Don't skip breakfast: Ensure children start the day with fruits, milk, and whole grains.
• Cut down sugary drinks: Replace sodas and packaged juices with water, coconut water, or homemade buttermilk.
• Increase fruits and vegetables: These provide essential fibre, vitamins, and minerals.
• Limit junk food: Chips, burgers, sweets, and fried snacks should be occasional treats, not daily habits.
• Promote daily physical activity: Encourage at least one hour of play or exercise every day.
• Eat together as a family: Shared meals help children observe and adopt healthier eating behaviours naturally.

Building Healthy Habits Early

Dr Ramtekkar concluded, "Healthy eating habits during childhood are one of the best ways to protect a child from having diabetes when he or she grows up. Parents can easily bring healthier lifestyles to the child's life with careful meal plans, healthy lifestyles, and healthy lifestyles of the parents, which would bring healthier lifestyles to the child."

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.