Pre-Diabetes CYP
This is where blood sugar levels that are higher than normal, but not high enough for a diabetes diagnosis. In children, it is often associated with obesity and, if not managed, can develop into Type 2 diabetes.
Prediabetes often has no obvious signs, however children and young adults with prediabetes may show signs that their condition is worsening or progressing to type 2 diabetes with the following signs and symptoms:
- Increased thirst
- Frequent urination
- Blurred vision
- Fatigue (extreme tiredness)
- Increased hunger
- Unexplained weight loss
- Slow-healing sores or cuts
- Tingling or numbness (in the hands or feet)
Other Signs and Symptoms
- Darkened skin patches: on the neck, armpits, or groin
- Frequent infections
If your child has any of these symptoms, contact your GP for a blood test to check for prediabetes and diabetes.
Treatment for prediabetes in children and young people (CYP) primarily involves lifestyle changes to improve insulin resistance and prevent the progression to type 2 diabetes by the following:
- Increase intake of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
- Reduce intake of sugary drinks and foods. Reduce consumption of soda, juice, and other sugary products.
- Limit white bread, white rice, and other processed grains.
- Reduce intake of high-fat foods, especially saturated fats.
- Minimize consumption of processed snacks like crackers and cookies.
- Reduce portion sizes, particularly for starchy carbohydrates.
- Aim for daily activity with at least 60 minutes of moderate-to-intense physical activity per day. Examples include brisk walking, biking, and swimming
- Reduce sitting in one place for periods of time
- By losing even 5-7% of body weight can significantly reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
