5 Surprising Facts About Childhood Diabetes

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5 Surprising Facts About Childhood Diabetes
Diabetes, especially type 2, is often associated
with people over the age of 40. But there are
many children throughout the world who suffer
from this difficult disease. It is important that
awareness of childhood (juvenile) diabetes is
increased. We at Fight Diabetes want to improve
public understanding of this condition so that
parents can identify diabetes in their children
as early as possible.
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1. Its Not All Hereditary

While there is a genetic factor in type 1
diabetes, it isnt a strictly hereditary disease.
Type 2 diabetes isnt either, but genetic
predisposition along with other triggers, can
increase the likelihood of developing the
disease. One trigger might be related to cold
weather. Type 1 diabetes develops more often in
winter than summer and is more common in places
with cold climates. Another trigger might be
viruses. Perhaps a virus that has only mild
effects on most people triggers type 1 diabetes
in others. Early diet may also play a role. Type
1 diabetes is less common in people who were
breastfed and in those who first ate solid foods
at later ages. Its important that parents
understand that even if there is no history of
diabetes in their families, their children can
still become diabetic.
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2. Most Childhood Diabetes is Seen in Caucasian
Populations
Childhood diabetes is lot more prevalent in white
populations. 71 of childhood diabetes cases were
in those with a white background according to
recent research. Of course this doesnt mean that
children from other ethnic backgrounds cant
develop diabetes, it just means that it is less
likely.
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3. Sugar Isnt the Main Cause
While increased blood sugar levels are often a
tell-tale sign of diabetes, eating large amounts
of sugar isnt always the main issue. Other foods
such as rice, potatoes and other carbohydrates
are more specifically connected to a childs
blood sugar levels. The reason that sugar itself
is often associated with diabetes is because
sugar is fattening and is often included in
childhood treats such as candy or ice cream. When
larger amounts are consumed a childs weight can
spiral out of control, making them more
susceptible to developing diabetes. This doesnt
mean that children cant enjoy treats if they
suffer from diabetes, it just means that they
have to be very careful with their diet and
consult a doctor before knowing whether its ok
to have an occasional cake or piece of candy.
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4. Diabetes Can Be Controlled Through Lifestyle
Changes
Diabetes itself can actually be controlled in
many circumstances.  Research shows that exercise
is an integral part of preventing diabetes or
controlling the disease. When parents first hear
that their children may be developing diabetes,
they worry that medications will be required to
control the condition. While this is true,
lifestyle changes can have a huge impact and can
negate the need for more serious medical
intervention. In an era where many children play
video-games rather than exercise, its more
important than ever to nurture good fitness and
physical health.
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5. Three Signs of Childhood Diabetes
There are three symptoms of diabetes which can
help parents identify whether their child might
be having an issue. These are

1. Increased bed-wetting and other accidents.
2. Increased thirst which seems to be unquenchable
   no matter how many fluids are taken.
3. Dehydration other than thirst such as a dry mouth
   or lack of tears or dried eyes which indicates
   that there may not be enough fluid in a childs
   body.

We hope these five facts about childhood diabetes
will help to increase awareness of the condition
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ABOUT FIGHTING DIABETES
Fightdiabetes.com is a comprehensive website
about diabetes. The mission of fightdiabetes.com
is to inform, educate, discuss, guide you
regarding diabetes and connect you to the
community online.
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out-childhood-diabetes/