Introduction
counting is a skill that can help you and your child plan his or her meals to
manage
and control blood sugar. Carbohydrate
counting also can allow your child to eat a variety of foods, just like other
kids, and to increase his or her sense of control and confidence in managing
diabetes.
When you and your child know how much carbohydrate is in
food, you can spread it throughout the day and control portion sizes. This
helps to keep your child's blood sugar in his or her target range after meals.
High blood sugar can make your child feel tired and thirsty and, over time, can
damage many body organs and tissues.
Key points
- Carbohydrate is the nutrient that makes blood
sugar rise the most.
- Using this method to provide consistent
carbohydrate at each meal helps a child maintain blood sugar at his or her
target level.
- You should consult a registered dietitian or certified diabetes
educator to help you and your child understand and use carbohydrate
counting.
More information about diabetes in children can be found
in these topics:
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