Discovering that your child has diabetes can be devastating, but advancements in modern medicine have made it easier than ever to manage the condition for decades. As long as you follow the doctor’s guidelines, your child will lead a happy, fulfilling life. Managing diabetes can still be challenging, though, and parents of children who have the condition could always use a few tips, so the compassionate team at Lexington Family Physicians in Davidson County, NC, shares some below. 

3 Tips for Managing Your Child’s Diabetes 

1. Get the Whole Family Involved 

People with diabetes aren’t the only ones who should be committed to maintaining a healthy weight by monitoring what they eat and prioritizing physical activity. The whole family can benefit from leading a healthier lifestyle in general, so get everyone involved in your child’s care plan. Play outside or do some kind of physical activity together every day, and limit everyone’s intake of candy, soda, and other unhealthy snacks. 

2. Practice Good Oral Hygiene Habits

There is a direct correlation between high blood sugar and tooth decay. Since diabetes makes it harder for the body to fight off bacteria, people with the condition are also more likely to develop gingivitis and periodontitis. Therefore, it’s particularly important for parents of diabetic kids to teach good oral hygiene habits. This includes brushing at least twice a day (but preferably after every meal), flossing at least once a day, and visiting a dentist regularly for professional cleanings and comprehensive oral exams. 

3. Instill Confidence in Your Child 

Find age-appropriate ways for your child to take ownership of their condition and ultimately play an active role in managing it. For example, even kids in elementary school can keep a food diary, which will provide considerable insight regarding blood sugar variations, moods, and energy. As your child gets older, they can take on more responsibility, like taking medication as prescribed and testing blood sugar levels.

If your child has diabetes, turn to Lexington Family Physicians for quality care. Serving families throughout Davidson County, NC, this practice applies a holistic approach to preventative medicine, so patients of all ages can lead their best life. In addition to diabetic care, they provide everything from gynecology services to dermatology exams. Visit the website to learn more about their warm and friendly staff, or call (336) 249-3329 to make an appointment with a family doctor.