PARENT ALERT: Is your Kid at Risk for Type-2 Diabetes?

Type-2 diabetes is one of the most rapidly-growing diseases in the U.S.  It is estimated that one in three children born after 2000 will develop the disease in their lifetime. In fact, in today's urban areas, children account for nearly 50% of all newly diagnosed cases. So what can you as a parent do to safeguard your child?

Why are more young people developing type-2 diabetes? The answer lies in a growing weight problem among our youth. More than 30% of teenagers in this country are overweight and, by today's health standards, 15% are obese. Compared to just twenty years ago, there are now twice as many overweight kids. Since excess body fat interferes with the way insulin works, a pre-diabetic condition can develop, which, left unchecked, can develop into type-2 diabetes. In addition, they will likely suffer from elevated blood pressure, cholesterol and triglycerides which can also contribute to an increased risk of heart disease.

What are the signs of type-2 diabetes? Common symptoms include: excessive thirst, frequent urination, unsatisfied hunger, slow-healing wounds or frequent infections, blurred vision and lack of energy. If your child has a family history of diabetes or if you had gestational diabetes, then he or she is at greater risk for the disease.

Annual screenings by your doctor can identify the problem early.

Eating right and exercising regularly offer the best prevention. Follow these seven suggestions:

1. Provide your family with five servings of fruits and vegetables daily
2. Practice portion control
3. Eliminate late-night snacking
4. Encourage sports and other activities
5. Limit television to one hour per day
6. Become a role model for your kids by staying active and practicing good eating habits
7. Do away with sugar-sweetened beverages - instead serve water, low-fat or non-fat milk, and 100% fruit juice (in moderation, as even 100% juice has natural sugars in it)

Kids who eat the right foods, stay active and can keep off excess weight are healthier, happier and more energetic. But, best of all, they possess a higher sense of self-esteem.