### Meal Planning for Kids with Type 1 Diabetes When you have a child with type 1 diabetes, meal planning is crucial. Everything your child eats can affect their blood sugar levels. Here are some key points to consider: #### Good Nutrition Children with type 1 diabetes need nutrient-rich foods to help them grow and maintain a healthy weight. Aim for 15%-25% of their calories from protein, 25%-35% from healthy fats, and 40%-60% from carbohydrates. #### Carbohydrates Carbs are essential as they provide energy. Focus on complex carbs like vegetables and whole grains, which contain vitamins, minerals, and fiber that help control blood sugar levels. Avoid simple carbs like white bread, pasta, candy, and frosting as they can quickly raise blood sugar. #### Carb Counting Many families manage blood sugar levels by counting the carbs in every meal or snack and adjusting insulin doses accordingly. Check food labels for total carbs per serving and subtract dietary fiber. Multiply by the number of servings your child eats. For home-cooked meals or dining out, look up carb counts and portion sizes online. #### Constant Carbohydrate Plan This involves eating a set amount of carbs at each meal and snack, at the same times every day, and taking insulin at set times. This plan helps maintain consistent blood sugar levels. #### Exchange Meal Plan This plan includes specific amounts from six food groups: starch, fruit, milk, fat, vegetables, and meat. Foods can be exchanged for others with the same calories, protein, carbs, and fats. Focus on carb exchanges as they impact blood sugar the most. #### Foods to Avoid Avoid fatty foods with cholesterol, saturated fat, and trans fat to reduce the risk of heart disease. Limit high-salt foods to prevent high blood pressure. Sugary foods like candy, cookies, and soda should be limited as they raise blood sugar quickly. These can be given with meals and insulin adjustments. #### Snacks to Keep on Hand “Free” snacks like cucumbers, celery, or sugar-free gelatin have few carbs and minimal impact on blood sugar. “Controlled-carb snacks” like low-fat string cheese, a hard-boiled egg, or a small serving of nuts are good choices between meals. #### Highs and Lows High blood sugar (hyperglycemia) can occur if your child eats more or at different times than planned. Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) can happen if they skip meals, eat fewer carbs, take insulin at the wrong time, or exercise more without extra snacks or insulin adjustments. Treat low blood sugar with sugary foods like soda, orange juice, or cake frosting. Keep glucose tablets or a glucagon kit on hand. #### Keep Track Record your child’s carb intake, insulin doses, and blood sugar readings to help you and your doctor adjust their meal plan as needed.