The CDC is sounding the alarm on prediabetes in adolescents. The latest report suggests that about 1 in 3 kids has prediabetes. This means they have elevated blood sugar levels that could lead to Type 2 diabetes if not addressed.
This number is even more concerning when compared to previous estimates. The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey found that only 28% of adolescents showed these signs in the 2015-2016 survey, and only 20% in the one before that, according to StatNews.
At this stage, the disease may exhibit no symptoms, making it easy to miss. This is crucial because at this stage it can still be reversed with intervention, so parents should be alert.
What Should Parents Watch For?
The latest numbers say that about 1 in 3 adolescents is at risk, and more sedentary lifestyles are likely a factor. Prediabetes doesn’t always progress into full-blown diabetes, but when it does, the effects can be very serious, so early intervention is key.
Your child’s doctor may raise concerns about blood sugar levels at their regular checkups, but there are risk factors that you can be aware of, too.
Simply being in adolescence can be a risk factor, as hormone changes (which occur in all teens, but particularly in girls) can affect how effectively the body uses insulin, according to the CDC. Being overweight is another risk factor, even if the teen is otherwise healthy.
One currently prevalent risk factor, and one that’s relatively easy to address, is inactivity. Few kids get sufficient physical activity, and that’s a significant health risk.
The Genetic Factor In Diabetes
Some risk factors for diabetes and prediabetes are outside your and your child’s control.
Some people have a greater genetic predisposition to diabetes. If there is a family history of diabetes, you should be aware, because it means an increased risk for your child (and yourself).
Some ethnic and racial groups also have a higher risk, including Black, Native American, Hispanic, Asian American, and Pacific Islander.
A child is also at higher risk if their mother had gestational diabetes during pregnancy.
If any of the above applies to your child, you’ll want to use heightened vigilance.
What Should You Ask Your Pediatrician?
Pediatricians may start testing your child’s blood sugar at around age 10, or at puberty if it comes earlier. Then, a typical schedule involves checking every three years.
However, if your child has risk factors, your doctor may perform this test more frequently. Alternatively, if you’re concerned, you can request a screening.
You should also consult your pediatrician before making any drastic changes to your diet and exercise regimen. While getting active is important, and healthy eating can help reduce the risk, your child also needs nutrients for their growing and developing body. Therefore, any changes should be made cautiously and with guidance.
What Sort Of Lifestyle Changes Should We Consider?
As mentioned, no major lifestyle changes should be made without consulting your doctor.
However, everyone can make an effort to be a little healthier, and changes for your child will work best if they’re done as a family. These changes can be simple and gradual, and don’t have to be onerous.
One tiny change that can make a significant difference is having family meals without screens. Eating in front of a screen and eating alone change our intake and make us more likely to ignore our body’s cues when it’s sated.
Changing food choices helps, too. That doesn’t mean you need to eliminate all snacks, treats, and sugar at once! You can set limits on sodas and other sugary drinks, and start providing more vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Plan ahead for shopping — it’s hard to impulsively eat foods that aren’t in the house!
You can also work on getting your whole family up and moving. If Mom and Dad are on board together, it will be easier to get the kids active. This can mean going hiking or biking as a family, or it can mean playing catch, or taking a dance class. Whatever it looks like for your family, joining in together will make it easier for your child.