Diabetes is a disease that afflicts nearly 26 million children and adults in the United States—or 8.3 percent of the population—according to the American Diabetes Association. Only 5 percent of those with diabetes have been diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes, a condition where the body doesn’t produce enough insulin and therefore requires insulin supplementation.  This is usually diagnosed in children and young adults.

While Type 2 diabetes (or non-insulin dependent diabetes) is rare in children, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports it is being diagnosed more frequently. One of the risk factors attributed to this increase is childhood obesity. 

The Alliance for a Healthier Generation claims that overweight and obese children are at greater risk for contracting more types of illness—such as more digestive problems, higher rates of asthma or diabetes. This can also mean more challenges to their quality of life.

Northwestern Lake Forest Hospital’s Nutrition Services offers one-on-one nutrition and weight management counseling to help children meet their health goals and better manage medical conditions. Registered dietitians will meet with you and your child to develop long-term goals and food plans that complement his or her lifestyle and preferences. In addition, our accredited outpatient Diabetes Education Program provides comprehensive education and training on diabetes with our staff of certified diabetes educators and dietitians.

Offices visits are available in both Lake Forest and Grayslake. For more information, please contact Nutrition Services at 847.535.6176—or, to schedule an appointment, call 847.535.8000.

 

STARS Pediatric Weight Management Program

At Northwestern Lake Forest Hospital, we offer a weight management program for children between the ages of eight to 14 that is designed to build healthy bodies through increased physical activity and a targeted diet composed of nutritious foods. The STARS program, or Start Targeting and Reach Success, includes five individual consultations with a registered dietitian.  For more information, please contact Nutrition Services at 847.535.6176—or, to schedule an appointment, call 847.535.8000.