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By Abha Choudhary, M.D.
As diabetes becomes increasingly common in the United States, so do misconceptions about it. Parents often struggle to differentiate between myths and facts, and to truly grasp the causes and treatments associated with type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
1. Can diabetes be caused by excessive sugar intake?
A prevalent myth about diabetes is that it stems from consuming too much sugar.
“Whenever we see a child with a new diagnosis, parents frequently inquire if it’s due to something they did,” shares Dr. Choudhary. “Was it too much sugar? Was it the soda?”
Dr. Choudhary clarifies that type 1 diabetes is not related to diet or sugar consumption. It is an autoimmune disorder that results in the body’s inability to produce insulin. The precise origins remain unclear, and it cannot be prevented, irrespective of sugar intake.
On the other hand, while type 2 diabetes may be connected to excessive weight gain, it is not solely caused by sugar consumption. Children who lack physical activity and consume unhealthy foods—whether sugary or not—may have an elevated risk of type 2 diabetes, particularly if they are overweight. However, some children with healthy weights may still be genetically predisposed to type 2 diabetes.
2. How many different types of diabetes are there?
In the past, many believed there were just two types of diabetes: one affecting children (previously called “juvenile diabetes,” now known as type 1) and one affecting adults (previously termed “adult-onset diabetes,” now referred to as type 2). However, it is now understood that children can also develop type 2 diabetes, and there are indeed more than two types of diabetes.
Dr. Choudhary explains that as medical knowledge advances, new types of diabetes are identified, including:
- Maturity-onset diabetes of the young (MODY)
- Steroid-induced diabetes
- Cystic-fibrosis-related diabetes
- Type 1.5 diabetes
These diabetes types can be associated with various conditions, medical treatments like chemotherapy, and also some unknown factors.
3. Is diabetes genetic?
Concerns often arise regarding whether diabetes can be inherited from parents. Dr. Choudhary states that genetics can influence diabetes risk, but this varies by diabetes type. Certain ethnic groups may have a higher likelihood of developing diabetes. Nonetheless, diet and weight have a larger impact on whether a child might develop type 2 diabetes.
“In families, people typically consume the same foods,” says Dr. Choudhary. “If parents with type 2 diabetes maintain an unhealthy diet, their children may also develop it due to shared eating habits.”
For type 1 diabetes, genetics do play a role, but it is not completely understood. A family history of autoimmune diseases, such as type 1 diabetes, lupus, or Hashimoto’s disease, may increase a child’s risk for type 1 diabetes.
4. Do individuals with diabetes need to follow special diets?
Some might think that children diagnosed with diabetes must avoid sugary foods entirely. However, children with type 1 diabetes can enjoy the same foods as other kids, such as chips and cupcakes, in moderation. It is essential for parents and their children to appropriately adjust insulin doses to accommodate carbohydrate-rich foods. Dr. Choudhary recommends a diet rich in healthy, balanced meals and advises against excessive sugar or soda consumption, except in situations of low blood sugar.
In contrast, children with type 2 diabetes should aim for a nutritious diet to help manage their blood sugars. While it is fine for them to indulge in cake at birthday parties or a sweet treat on special occasions, moderation is key. Here are some foods they should generally avoid:
- Juice, soda, and other sweetened drinks
- Unhealthy snacks like chips, cookies, or even dried fruit
- Fried foods
- White bread, rice, or pasta (opt for whole grain instead)
- Fatty red meats
- Full-fat dairy products
If a child is diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, Dr. Choudhary encourages parents to assist their child in focusing on a wholesome diet filled with vegetables, lean proteins, low-fat dairy, and whole grains.
5. Is there a way to reverse or cure diabetes?
Currently, there is no cure for type 1 diabetes. Medical professionals and researchers are still exploring the reasons behind the condition, making a cure unavailable at this time—although ongoing studies may lead to breakthroughs.
Conversely, type 2 diabetes can potentially be reversed with healthy lifestyle adjustments.
“If children with type 2 diabetes eat healthily and shed some weight, we can reduce or even eliminate their insulin treatment,” says Dr. Choudhary. “Type 2 diabetes can be reversed if the family commits to better nutrition and physical activity.”
Dr. Choudhary also cautions that not every case of type 2 diabetes can be reversed. If the pancreas, which produces insulin, suffers significant damage, the child may need to manage diabetes throughout life. This underscores the importance of early diagnosis, diet, and exercise.
Abha Choudhary, M.D. is a pediatric endocrinologist at Children’s Health℠ and an Assistant Professor at UT Southwestern.
6. Are there effective home remedies for diabetes?
Home remedies for diabetes are gaining popularity. Some people believe that apple cider vinegar, cinnamon, or essential oils may help regulate blood sugar levels. However, there is limited scientific evidence backing these claims.
“We simply do not have sufficient proof to endorse the use of these remedies for those with diabetes,” Dr. Choudhary states. “As long as a remedy is safe, parents may experiment, but it should never replace prescribed medication or insulin.”
Before trying any home remedy, it’s vital to consult your healthcare provider. Essential oils, in particular, can pose risks if ingested in large amounts. Ensuring your child’s safety should always be the priority.
The most effective home remedies for type 2 diabetes are a balanced diet and regular exercise. Involving the entire family in healthier eating and more physical activities can significantly improve a child’s blood sugar levels and may even reverse the condition.
Learn more
Discover how the diabetes and endocrinology specialists at Children’s Health aid in diagnosing and treating diabetes in children of all ages.
