More than 38 million people in the United States have diabetes, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), with millions more living with prediabetes. Diabetes is a chronic disease that affects how the body processes glucose, leading to increased risks of heart and kidney disease, nerve damage, vision loss, and other health problems if not managed properly.
There are two main types of diabetes. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the immune system destroys insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. It typically requires insulin therapy through injections or pumps and is often diagnosed in children or young adults but can occur at any age. Obesity or lifestyle factors generally do not cause type 1 diabetes.
Type 2 diabetes is more common, especially among adults, though it is increasingly seen in children. In this form, the body becomes resistant to insulin over time. Risk factors include being overweight or inactive, family history of diabetes, and certain ethnic backgrounds.
Experts stress that healthy eating patterns and lifestyle changes are essential for managing both types of diabetes. The American Diabetes Association (ADA) states there is no single “diabetic diet,” but rather encourages building a balanced and sustainable way of eating. Patients should consult their doctors before making dietary changes.
At Wolfson Children’s Hospital’s Northeast Florida Pediatric Diabetes Center and Nemours Children’s Health in Jacksonville, clinical dietitians work with families to implement gradual changes when caring for children with diabetes.
Mary Louise Fox, registered dietitian and diabetes educator at the center, said: “Roughly 40-50% of their diet should be carbohydrates. There is no number limit on carbs, but these patients need to check the serving size on nutrition labels and ensure they’re portioning their food appropriately.”
For children with type 1 diabetes, education focuses on understanding carbohydrates, fats, proteins, carb counting, sugar consumption monitoring, and using technologies like insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitors.
Children with type 2 diabetes are encouraged to adopt healthier habits such as increased exercise and weight loss by choosing homemade meals over fast food. They receive guidance on meal portions—half vegetables, one-quarter protein, one-quarter starch—and support from family members.
“It’s important that family members support the child and incorporate healthy food choices themselves. Kids and families should realize they’re not alone,” Fox said. “We frequently reassess our patients to make sure we’re finding strategies that work for them.”
For adults with either type of diabetes, Casey Bonaquist, DO—obesity medicine physician and medical director at Baptist Metabolic Weight Loss—advises avoiding processed foods and those high in added sugars.
“A good rule of thumb for people with type 1 diabetes, and anyone striving to live an overall healthy lifestyle, is to avoid processed foods and high-sugar foods,” Dr. Bonaquist said. “Added sugars can often be found in packaged and prepared foods.”
Dr. Bonaquist noted that consuming sugary foods can lead to cravings: “It’s a cycle that’s hard to break and makes maintaining a healthy diet difficult. If you wean yourself off of added sugars, your body will eventually stop craving them, and you’ll feel more in control.”
Adults with type 1 typically work closely with endocrinologists or dietitians; new technologies like continuous glucose monitors allow precise adjustments during meals. The ADA recommends reducing processed foods because they complicate blood sugar management.
For those with type 2 diabetes who use medication such as insulin or sulfonylureas alongside sudden dietary changes may experience low blood sugar; therefore any major change should be reviewed by a physician first. Keeping a food log or using tracking apps can help identify triggers for unhealthy eating behaviors such as boredom or stress.
Recent recommendations include medications like GLP-1 receptor agonists—not only for controlling glucose levels but also supporting weight management as well as heart/kidney protection.
“Before making major changes always consult your health care provider or registered dietitian,” Dr Bonaquist said.”With ongoing support people living with diabetes can thrive.” She added: “If you gradually reduce added sugars and processed foods your cravings fade,and you’ll feel more in control.It’s not about restriction;it’s about building habits that last.”
The ADA emphasizes whole foods,daily activity,and individualized care plans for all ages,saying small consistent steps lead toward better long-term outcomes.
Individuals concerned about their risk are encouraged to speak directly with healthcare providers specializing in pediatric care or primary care physicians familiar with diabetic screening procedures.
Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
