Healthy Eating and plant-based diet in Type 1 Diabetic Children:

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is a chronic autoimmune disease defined by total lack of insulin production. The three primary pillars of type 1 diabetic treatment are insulin prescription, appropriate diet, and exercise.

The aim is to focus attention on diet, mainly on a plant-based diet, in order to evaluate if this food style can offer the correct supply of nutrients necessary for growth and well-controlled glycemic management. In conclusion, a plant-based diet for type 1 diabetes could be suitable for children.

Benefits of a plant-based diet for Type 1 diabetic children:                       

A plant-based diet is often thought of as a basic diet that excludes all animal products. Actually, the concept is much broader, and the diet patterns are different. The most common ones include fishery products (including mollusks and shellfish), milk, eggs, and derivatives, which is what we will refer to when talking about the vegetarian diet. In general, plant-based diets for type 1 diabetics are presumed to be healthy.

Symptoms of Type 1 Diabetic Children:                        

Increased urination:

Frequent trips to the bathroom, bed-wetting, or infants in larger diaper sizes, staying awake to use the bathroom in the middle of the night.

Being hungry:

The inability to slake one’s intense hunger likely leads to asking to drink more often, drink more quickly, or drink more overall.

Feeling tired:

More tired than usual, having less energy than normal. Playing less often results in lower energy for sports.

Weight loss:

Being thinner or losing weight than usual.

Having an infection:

Your child may also appear to be experiencing more infections than usual.

The relationship between type 1 diabetes and a plant-based diet:

People with Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) who choose to be vegetarians or whose families practice vegetarianism have unique dietary requirements due to their ongoing physical growth, physical activity, and requirement for enough carbohydrate intake in order to comply with insulin dosages. There are, however, few trials on plant-based diets for type 1 diabetic with kids and teenagers. Studies on childhood plant-based or vegan diets, both in T1D patients and the general population, are very inconsistent, primarily cross-sectional, have small sample sizes, and are out of date.

Plant-based diets are a good source of calcium for diabetic children:

Phytate and oxalate can affect calcium absorption in plant foods containing significant amounts of calcium (nuts, pulses, leafy vegetables). Iron’s bioavailability varies as well. For vegetarians and vegans, whole grains, cereals, pulses, nuts, and seeds—which are also high in phytates—are great sources of zinc. Vegetarian and vegan diets absorb zinc at a rate of about 15–25% lower than that of omnivorous diets.

Plant-based diets promote gut health in diabetic children:

Diet has a major impact on the composition and function of the gut microbiota; a diet rich in vegetables enhances microbial activity related to the metabolism of protein and carbohydrates, nutrient absorption, and the production of bioactive chemicals that may be good for human health.

High intake of fibers:                                                             

Vegetable proteins are slower to digest because they contain fiber, which helps to better regulate blood sugar levels and prevent peaks. However, due to the phytates found in cereals and legume seeds, a high-fiber diet can impede the absorption of some nutrients, including iron, zinc, and calcium. Given that plant protein has a lower digestion and/or protein quality, several experts suggest that children who are vegetarians or vegans should consume more protein. However, an excess protein intake during early childhood could cause adverse effects on the kidneys and, through the mechanism of insulin resistance, encourage the development of overweight or obesity later in life. The protein needs of a plant-based diet are easily met when the diet includes a variety of plant foods, and calorie intake is adequate. Germination of seeds and grains and fermentation of pulses and cereals can improve protein digestibility, so a higher protein intake is not necessary.

How do diet and blood sugar interact:

Certain meals immediately raise your child’s blood sugar levels. Other foods may have an indirect impact on levels. In addition to fruits, grains, rice, and pasta, dairy products like milk and yogurt, starchy vegetables like potatoes and corn, and sugary foods like candy and desserts, foods high in carbohydrates have an immediate effect on blood sugar levels.

What dietary guidelines apply to people with plant-based diet type 1 diabetic:

Steer clear of sugar-filled beverages. Pick water instead. There are several sparkling waters out there with low carb counts or sugar replacements. Additionally, it helps add taste to your water without adding extra calories or sugar. Try infusing it with fresh fruits and herbs. Although light, sugar-free lemonades or unsweetened teas are excellent choices, they shouldn’t be your primary intake of water. Letting your child skip meals can result in overindulging at the next meal. Never should your child skip a meal, even if they are attempting to reduce weight. Meal sizes should only be decreased. Boost your daily intake of fiber to support general blood sugar regulation in addition to numerous other health advantages.

What foods are appropriate for a child with type 1 diabetes:

Consuming a diverse range of food items is crucial.

These healthy foods and snacks include:

• Vegetables are prepared in many ways, including steamed, roasted, in a salad or dipped in dressing or hummus.
•  Fresh fruits with peanut/other nut butter.
•  Dairy products such as cheese or Greek yogurt.
•  Eggs are prepared any way your child prefers.
• Lean Nuts, seeds, and beans.
• Low-fat cheese on whole wheat crackers.
•  cereal with a lot of fiber.
•  meats including poultry and fish.

 Exchange Meal Plan:

With an “exchange plan,” your child’s menu will include the amount they can eat from six different food groups: starch, fruit, milk, fat, vegetables, and meat. One food’s calories, protein, carbohydrates, and fat can be swapped out for another food’s equivalent in these nutrients. In children with type 1, dietitians often will focus on carb exchanges since this affects blood sugars the most. You can find exchange lists online.