Pre-diabetes is characterized by higher than normal levels of glucose in the blood. Children most at risk of developing pre-diabetes are those who are obese, inactive and have a family history of diabetes. Children at risk should be screened for the condition by the age of 10.
Identification
Blood glucose can be measured after a fasting period of eight to 10 hours. The child will be diagnosed with pre-diabetes if the results show a blood sugar between 100 mg/dl and 125 mg/dl, according to Dr. Helena W. Rodbard of the American College of Endocrinologists. A second type of test measures glucose tolerance and is administered two hours after the patient takes a glucose drink. Pre-diabetes exists if the results fall between 140 and 199 mg/dl.
Diet Modifications
Children with prediabetes should eat a healthy diet such as the one described by the USDA's food pyramid. This means grains, vegetable, fruits, dairy products and meats.
Exercise
Children with pre-diabetes should participate in 60 minutes of physical activity each day. It may be helpful to encourage participation in sports.
Weight Loss
Up to 80 percent of all children diagnosed with pre-diabetes are obese. Overweight patients with pre-diabetes should strive to lose enough weight to fall below the 85th percentile of children of the same age and sex.
Considerations
Medications such as Metformin and insulin may be required if lifestyle changes fail to reverse or control the symptoms.
Warning
Individuals who develop diabetes early in life have a higher risk of developing cardiovascular disease. Controlling pre-diabetes also can prevent the onset of diabetes.
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