Children with diabetes are instructed to follow a prescribed diet. As long as the diet is followed, food can be selected from the school cafeteria or brought in from home.
General Dietary Guidelines
- Mealtimes should be consistent from day-to-day.
- The quantity of food should be consistent from day-to-day.
- No meal or snack should be skipped or delayed even if blood glucose levels are high, unless specifically directed by a physician or other health care professional.
- Mid-morning and mid-afternoon snacks may be necessary to prevent a low blood sugar level.
- Adequate time should be provided for finishing meals and snacks.
- Additional food may be necessary prior to strenuous or atypical exercise.
Specific Dietary Guidelines
A detailed meal plan for each student can be obtained by contacting the child's guardian. It is suggested that all caretakers have the following specific information for each student:
- The student's dietitian's name, phone number, fax number and e-mail address
- Estimated total calories per day and for each meal and snack
- Does this student need to be reminded to take his snack?
- Which foods are appropriate for snacks and parties?
