Pediatric Diabetes
Most new diagnoses of diabetes mellitus in childhood are type 1
diabetes mellitus (previously called insulin-dependent or
juvenile-onset diabetes mellitus); however, a growing number of
children are also being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes (previously
called non-insulin-dependent or adult-onset diabetes mellitus).
Type 1 diabetes is characterized by autoimmune destruction of the beta
cells in the pancreas, which results in
significantly less-than-normal insulin production (the body isn't
making enough insulin); type 2 diabetes is characterized by insulin
resistance (the body's cells can't use insulin properly).
Nutrition goals for our patients with diabetes, as well as their
families or caregivers, may include learning about how to:
- Eat a well-balanced diet that is appropriate for children and adolescents
- Count carbohydrates and determine meal-time insulin dosages based on carbohydrate counts
- Maintain or lose weight, as appropriate for the patient's situation
- Safely incorporate physical activity and exercise into daily life
- Read food labels and measure portion sizes
Pediatric Diabetes Clinic:
- Weekly at the Kluge Children's Rehabilitation outpatient center
- For appointment call (434) 924-2250
- Satellite clinics are also available in Roanoke and Winchester monthly; schedules for those clinics may be obtained by calling the number above
