Consuming junk food while watching TV is increasing diabetes risk in children

Over time several studies have established the correlation between screen time unhealthy eating habits and the increasing prevalence of diabetes in children This is a concerning trend observe health expertsWorld Diabetes Day is marked on November 14 to raise awareness about the condition and its risk factors prevention and treatmentWhile factors like genetics play a role in causing diabetes among children environmental and situational factors like consuming junk food can also be responsible When children are engrossed in television shows or video games their attention is diverted from their eating habits This distraction often leads to mindless consumption leading to obesity and diabetes in children aged 1216Explaining this correlation Dr Rohit Barnabas Endocrinologist Zynova Shalby Hospital Mumbai says ldquoDiabetes cases are rapidly surging not only in older people or adults but even children The factors leading to diabetes are not only stress family history genetic and pancreatic damage but even excessive junk food consumption while watching the TV The combination of sedentary behaviour and unconscious overeating creates a perfect storm for metabolic issues in children Were observing a significant uptick in obesity rates and consequently earlyonset of diabetes in childrenrdquoObesity is a major risk factor for diabetes As excessive screen time coupled with junk food consumption causes the former these habits inevitably also lead to the latterInforming how obesity and diabetes can be interlinked in children he says ldquoThe link between obesity and diabetes is wellestablished Excess body fat can lead to insulin resistance a precursor to diabetes As children gain weight their bodies become less responsive to insulin the hormone that regulates blood sugar This sets the stage for the development of type 2 diabetes in childrenrdquoDr Vaishali Naik Diabetologist Lilavati Hospital Mumbai further elaborates ldquoKids aged 1216 who watch television engage in eating junk food containing high levels of saturated fats calories and sugars Fast food and spending too much time in front of the television are causing a spike in childhood obesity in children that is also linked to diabetes Obesity impacts the childrsquos ability to use insulin and leads to abnormal blood sugar levels and diabetesrdquoSymptoms of diabetes in childrenAccording to Dr Naik some symptoms of diabetes in children arerdquoFrequent thirst and urinationWeight lossFatigueLoss of appetiteHow to prevent diabetes in childrenLifestyle changes are the most important in the prevention of diabetes among childrenldquoBy instilling healthy habits early it is possible to protect children from the longterm health consequences of obesity and diabetes Its not just about preventing disease as itrsquos about fostering a generation of healthier happier childrenrdquo remarks Dr BarnabasHe suggests the following prevention strategiesParents should limit screen time for children and establish clear boundaries for TV watching and video game use Watching TV for only 1 hour per day is recommended for childrenEncourage physical activities as alternatives to screen time This could include outdoor play sports or family activities like walksStock nutritious snacks at home and limit the availability of processed junk food Opt for fruits vegetables and whole grainsTeach children to eat at the table away from screensHelp children develop healthy stress coping mechanisms such as gardening listening to music and learning a new skill for stress that doesnt involve food or screensSharing more tips Dr Naik says ldquoGive them healthy snacking options Hummus with veggies yogurt or milk with fruit and crunchy chickpeas instead of chips fries and other fried foods such as samosas Additionally parents should encourage children to exercise daily or play sports to stay healthy maintain an optimum weight and prevent diabetesDr Rajesh Bendre National Technical Head Apollo Diagnostics Mumbai stressed the need for regular health checkups He says ldquoParents need to prioritise their childrens health by taking them for regular health checkups to actively monitor their physical wellbeing Pretests like fasting blood sugar HbA1c and oral glucose tolerance tests can help detect high blood sugar levels before they become problematicrdquoRegular tests and health checkups are also necessary for children who already have diabetes ldquoFor children with diabetes regular monitoring of their blood sugar levels kidney function blood pressure and cholesterol is vital This can help them make necessary changes in their dietary choices and lifestyle to stay healthy and fitrdquo says Dr BendreldquoThere is still a lack of awareness when it comes to measuring blood sugar levels in children Parents should ensure to check the blood sugar levels at home with the help of a glucometer as suggested by the doctor and take the necessary steps to improve the quality of life of children with diabetesrdquo he concludesAlso ReadThese superfoods can help boost health and immunity during Mumbairsquos seasonal transition