Lifestyle Changes Can Help Kids Prevent Type 2 Diabetes

Many things can affect a child’s risk of getting type 2 diabetes, including family history, eating patterns, physical activity, sleep, and access to healthy foods and safe places to play. Some groups of children are at higher risk because they may have less access to some of these resources.

Healthy habits started in childhood often continue into adulthood. Parents and caregivers can do a lot to help lower their child’s risk of type 2 diabetes. Here are some tips:

• Offer a variety of healthy foods. Include protein foods, dairy, vegetables, fruits, healthy fats, and whole grains in meals and snacks.
• Help your child be physically active every day. Children need at least 60 minutes of activity most days. Sports are one choice. But so is active play, such as running, jumping rope, or riding a bike. Walking the family pet is another good option.
• Encourage regular healthy meals and snacks. Have kids eat at the table when possible.
• Limit foods that aren't so healthy for your child. This includes highly processed foods, added sugars, and refined carbohydrates, such as packaged snacks, sugary drinks, and white bread.
• Limit soda, energy drinks, and juice. Offer water and unsweetened milk more often.
• Limit screen time, such as phones, computers, video games, and TV. Encourage active play instead.
• Help kids get enough sleep each night. Sleep is important for overall health.
• Set a good example. Children are more likely to develop healthy habits when they see adults practicing them too. Offer and enjoy a variety of healthy foods and be physically active together.

If you have questions about your child’s health, talk with your child’s doctor. These habits support your child’s overall health and can help lower the risk of type 2 diabetes and other long-term health problems.