Risk factors such as a sedentary lifestyle and poor diet increased during the pandemic, putting children and adolescents at risk of developing diabetes.
A study conducted by the Pennington Biomedical Research Center, in the state of Louisiana, in the United States, analyzed the relationship of the pandemic with risk factors for type 2 diabetes in children and adolescents. Research has considered social isolation as a stimulus for risky behaviors, such as a sedentary lifestyle and poor nutrition.
According to the scientists, the pandemic led to an increase in sedentary behaviors, which triggered sleep disturbances and an increase in the consumption of processed foods, worsening the nutritional quality of the diets of children and adolescents.
The researchers looked at the records of type 2 diabetes hospitalizations from March to December 2019 and the same period in 2020 in a children’s hospital. The study found that there were more type 2 diabetes hospitalizations in 2020, during the Covid-19 pandemic, compared to the previous year. In that hospital, hospitalizations for the disease went from 8 cases in 2019 to 17 in 2020, more than double.
how to prevent
According to the doctor. Mauro Scharf, endocrinologist specializing in diabetes, childhood obesity is one of the main causes of the development of the disease. “In addition to an unbalanced diet and a sedentary lifestyle, the delay in seeking medical attention at the onset of symptoms contributes to the aggravation of the disease,” he explains.
As the vaccination against Covid-19 advances, even for children and adolescents, outdoor activities have resumed and younger people can return to sports. Which, in fact, should not have been interrupted, since even at home it is possible to do some exercises.
According to the specialist, a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables also helps reduce the risk of developing diabetes or control the disease. “In addition to adopting a healthy lifestyle, it is essential to consult a doctor when symptoms indicate diabetes, such as frequent thirst and urination. The follow-up of a specialist is very important to define the best treatment to maintain the glycemic index at all. ‘interior of the ideal “, concludes Dr. Scharf.
Source: Terra
Benjamin Smith is a fashion journalist and author at Gossipify, known for his coverage of the latest fashion trends and industry insights. He writes about clothing, shoes, accessories, and runway shows, providing in-depth analysis and unique perspectives. He’s respected for his ability to spot emerging designers and trends, and for providing practical fashion advice to readers.
