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Type 1 Diabetes: Planning a Day’s Meals
Module 08 Content
1.
Read the following Clinical Case:
Jason is 11 years old and has Type 1 Diabetes. He was diagnosed with Diabetes when he was 5 years old. He is comfortable taking his “blood sugar” readings during the day. He likes to participate in sports and is on the soccer team, which practices three times a week after school. His mother always packs his lunch for school so he does not have to worry about eating the food in the cafeteria.
For this written assignment plan a day’s meal for Jason.
o Include breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks.
o In particular, include any snacks he may need after school to maintain a balanced diet during soccer practice.
o Also include a brief discussion about three issues/considerations regarding nutrition, diabetes, and children that nurses must be aware of.
You may use any of the resources found in this module or any other evidence-based sources (include those as in-text citations and references using APA Editorial Format).
_____________________
Meal Plan for Jason:
Breakfast:
1 cup of oatmeal with a sprinkle of cinnamon
1 hard-boiled egg
1 small apple
8 ounces of unsweetened almond milk
Lunch:
Turkey and cheese sandwich on whole grain bread
A side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers, dressed with olive oil and vinegar
1 small orange
8 ounces of water
Afternoon Snack (before soccer practice):
1 small banana
1 ounce of unsalted almonds
8 ounces of water
Dinner:
Grilled chicken breast
1 cup of brown rice
Steamed broccoli
8 ounces of water
Evening Snack:
1 small yogurt cup (sugar-free)
1 tablespoon of almond butter
8 ounces of water
Three Issues/Considerations Regarding Nutrition, Diabetes, and Children:
Carbohydrate Counting: It is crucial for nurses and caregivers to understand carbohydrate counting when planning meals for children with diabetes. Carbohydrates have the most significant impact on blood sugar levels, so accurately estimating and managing carbohydrate intake is essential. Jason’s meal plan includes balanced amounts of carbohydrates, such as whole grain bread, oatmeal, fruits, and brown rice, to ensure he receives enough energy for his activities while maintaining blood sugar control.
Consistent Meal Timing: Regular meal timing is important for children with diabetes to maintain stable blood sugar levels. Nurses should educate both Jason and his family about the importance of eating meals and snacks at consistent intervals throughout the day. This helps to prevent blood sugar fluctuations and provides a steady source of energy. Jason’s meal plan includes breakfast, lunch, dinner, and two snacks, strategically timed to support his diabetes management and physical activities.
Snacks for Physical Activities: For children like Jason who engage in sports or physical activities, snacks are essential to prevent hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) during exercise. Nurses should emphasize the importance of consuming snacks before, during, or after physical activities to maintain blood sugar levels within the target range. Jason’s meal plan includes an afternoon snack before soccer practice, consisting of a small banana and unsalted almonds, which provide a balance of carbohydrates and protein for sustained energy during exercise.
References:
American Diabetes Association. (2021). Meal planning. Retrieved from https://www.diabetes.org/nutrition/meal-planning
Jannah, N. N., Aziz, N. A. A., Aris, T., & Ramli, A. S. (2019). Carbohydrate counting in the management of diabetes: A review. Journal of Taibah University Medical Sciences, 14(4), 281-288. doi:10.1016/j.jtumed.2019.05.005
