New Delhi: There is a lack of awareness about type 1 Diabetes in parents. Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) is often misunderstood. Unlike other forms of diabetes, it is an autoimmune condition where the body attacks its own insulin-producing cells. Because of misconceptions, the parents of the children with type 1 diabetes tend to fret, panic, or get confused. Knowing what’s true helps make daily life and management clearer and less stressful. Here, the expert helps to bust myths related to type 1 diabetes in children.
In an interaction with News9Live, Dr. Kochurani Abraham, Consultant Pediatric Endocrinologist, Ankura Hospital for Women and Children, Pune, said, “The incidence of Type 1 diabetes is rising by 3–4% annually worldwide, particularly in children under 5 years of age. The common symptoms include increased appetite, extreme thirst, unexplained weight loss despite good appetite, frequent urination, or bed wetting in a previously toilet-trained child. It may also present with non-specific symptoms like fatigue, tiredness, poor concentration, irritability, or blurred vision. However, many parents feel overwhelmed when their child gets diagnosed with it. Parents must consult an expert and work with him/her by designing a tailor-made treatment plan for the child. Many children also struggle with social issues like anxiety, depression, or social awkwardness, as there is a lot of unawareness about type 1 diabetes in the community as well.”
Debunking some myths linked to type 1 diabetes
Myth 1: The child can get diabetes if he/she eat too much sugar
Fact: T1D is not triggered by eating sweet foods or sugary drinks. It’s an autoimmune disease, meaning the immune system destroys pancreatic cells that make insulin. You cannot prevent it through dietary restrictions.
Myth 2: If the child is on insulin, he/she can eat whatever they want
Fact: When a child is on insulin, parents believe that they don’t have to pay much attention to their diet. But this is totally wrong. Many children with diabetes are also becoming overweight, which means we have to fight diabetes and obesity, and they can suffer from many health complications, such as liver, cardiac, or kidney problems, as they grow. To ensure your child is as healthy as possible, parents should seek the help of an expert and take nutritional support. It is better to avoid sweets, desserts, processed food, and fried foods. Children with and without diabetes should adhere to healthy and balanced eating practices and regular physical activity. In Type 1 diabetes, insulin also becomes an important pillar of treatment.
Myth 3: Children with type 1 diabetes can’t live an active or “normal” life
Fact: With the right dose of insulin, a balanced diet, and regular activity, a child with type 1 diabetes can also lead a normal life as any other child. Regular monitoring of blood sugars, support from family, school, and community are other important factors for a child with type 1 diabetes to lead an active life. They can participate in sports, travel, and do any activity. There are no restrictions or limitations as long as they are managed under the guidance of a doctor and periodically evaluated.
With accurate knowledge, strong support, and good medical care, children can live with confidence and there is nothing that they can’t achieve in life.