Growth and development are basic indicators of a child’s general health. The growth of a child with type 1 diabetes can be hampered by high blood sugar levels that cause ketoacidosis, which leads to acid production in the blood that can negatively affect the child’s health and development, but if If a child with type 1 diabetes controls the level of glucose in the blood, his growth and development can be normal.
Longitudinal growth during childhood and adolescence represents one of the most relevant changes in body composition. Bone growth occurs at different rates and depends on complex mechanisms involving different hormones, diet, genetics and environmental factors. Other factors, such as chronic diseases, may influence a child’s development.
The incidence of type 1 diabetes is increasing at an annual rate of 3-5% in children under 5 years of age worldwide, and the high incidence of type 1 diabetes in children and adolescents has been a concern to health care professionals because uncontrolled blood sugar levels It can change physiological growth, and children may not reach the final expected height, according to what was published by the website ” doctor-ndtv“.
It is noteworthy that type 1 diabetes, known as insulin-dependent diabetes, is a chronic condition in which the pancreas produces little or no insulin, which parents of children with type 1 diabetes must follow to ensure the good physical development of their children:
1- Measure your child’s height and weight regularly and plot the measurements on a growth chart.
2- Monitor your blood pressure levels at least once every three months.
3 – Check for signs of the onset of puberty and make sure that puberty is not delayed for them.
4- Encourage the child to eat nutritious foods rich in fiber and an adequate amount of protein and calcium.
5- Make sure the child is exposed to sunlight.
6 – Encourage the child to exercise regularly.
7- Also be sure to follow up closely with your doctor to keep your blood sugar within the range as much as possible.
8 – Parents of children with diabetes should ensure that their children’s blood glucose levels are under control to avoid long-term complications.