Prediabetes in Children Is on the Rise
Pediatric diabetes is a growing health concern among parents, educators, and health experts. The rate of prediabetes in kids has more than doubled over the past two decades due to a variety of lifestyle factors. The leading causes of prediabetes in children are the same as those contributing to soaring diabetes rates in adults; sedentary lifestyle, being overweight, and high-sugar diets.
What Is Prediabetes?
Prediabetes is a health condition defined by elevated blood sugar levels, but levels not quite to the level of a Type 2 diabetes diagnosis. Nearly 100 million American adults meet the medical criteria of being prediabetic and facing an elevated risk of stroke, heart disease, and other adverse health outcomes. Developing prediabetes at a young age increases the risk of a Type 2 diabetes diagnosis in early adulthood and later in life.
Prediabetes Symptoms in Kids
Like adults, prediabetes expresses several symptoms, the severity of which can vary by changing blood sugar levels throughout the day, the patient’s age, and other factors. Certain populations are more likely to become prediabetic, including those with:
Fast, excessive weight gain
Family history of Type 2 diabetes
Black, Latino, Native American or Alaskan Natives
If you believe your child may have prediabetes, watch for common signs, including:
An abnormal increase in thirst/drinking water constantly
Frequent urination
Increased and persistent fatigue
Rapid, unexplained weight loss
Dark patchy skin rashes
Other contributing factors include a high birth rate (over 9 pounds), being overweight or obese, and a wider waist circumference have all been linked to prediabetes.
How to Treat Prediabetes in Kids
Addressing common lifestyle factors, such as exercise and diet, is the best way to help kids with prediabetes. There are substantial challenges facing underserved kids, especially those in rural communities.
The Best Foods for Kids with Prediabetes
Eating a healthy diet comprised of fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins is the best way to address prediabetes in kids. Avoid sugary snacks and beverages and limit your intake of highly processed foods as much as possible. In nearly every situation, making these healthy dietary changes benefits everyone in the home, so stick with it!
Exercise for Prediabetes
The best exercise for prediabetes is consistent exercise. Experts recommend 60 minutes of physical activity per day for kids 18 and under, which isn’t as tough as it seems. Make time to play outside, go for walks, or sign your child up for a fun after-school activity (we’re partial to riding bikes) to enjoy the mental health and social benefits of team-based activities.
Prediabetes Statistics and Trends
Recent CDC data suggests that 1 in 4 adolescents and 1 in 4 young adults are prediabetic. That rising trend is expected to continue; in 2022, research found that the rate of prediabetic children in the US has more than doubled from 11.6% to 28.2%. There’s a notable inverse relationship between increasing rates of prediabetes and the steady decline in the amount of physical activity kids get per day.
Make a Change
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution for every family and household. Work with your child to fun physical activities that match their interests and make time to prepare healthy foods as often as possible. Norte Youth Cycling is committed to creating a fun, inclusive environment that helps kids be active, social, and confident. Learn more about our youth cycling programs and consider donating today.