UNAIR NEWS – The Indonesian Pediatrician Association (IDAI) just released diabetes case statistics in children, which have increased seventy-fold since 2010. The significant rising was caused by the increasing number of early diagnostics and genetic factors. Moreover, the sugar and sodium intake in children has not been regulated yet. Dominikus Raditya Atmaka SGz MPH UNAIR Nutritionist explained the ways of diabetes prevention in children.
“The diabetes case in children is rising. The case is dominated by type 1 diabetes mellitus, which is a genetic or inborn metabolic error. It’s not about lifestyle,” Domi said.
Type 1 diabetes mellitus is different from type 2, which mainly occurs in adults due to unhealthy lifestyles. The Health Minister regulation number 30 2013 has regulated the recommended consumption of sugar, sodium, and fat (GGL) per day in adults, known for G4-G1-L5. G4 is for four tablespoons of sugar (50 grams), G1 for one teaspoon of salt (5 grams), and 5 tablespoons of fat (67 grams). How much sugar intake should children have?
Children’s age ends when puberty starts around 13-15 years old. Though sugar and sodium intake is not regulated by law, children have a dietary limit of sodium and carbohydrates according to Nutritional Adequacy Rate (RDA).
“If those are excessively consumed, there will be consequences of obesity, hypertension, etc.,” he explained.
Furthermore, children also need to consume breast milk or infant formula containing lactose, fructose, and glucose. He advised parents to give the most suitable formula for children with diabetes.
“Especially for simple sugar content added in infant formula a maximum of 5 percent. We need to control our daily calorie intake to prevent the significant rising of blood sugar,” said the clinical nutrition and food product development specialist.
Insulin injection is the treatment for children with type 1 diabetes mellitus. They must control their eating to keep their blood sugar stable. The UNAIR Nutrition lecturer further added neglecting the eating schedule (Jadwal), amount (Jumlah), and type (Jenis) or 3J leads to hypoglycemia, a condition in which the glucose or blood sugar levels are below standard.
Author: Viradyah Lulut Santosa
Editor : Khefti al mawalia
