If you and/or others in your family have type 2 diabetes, you might be worried about your children being diagnosed with it.

An epidemic of obesity in children and teenagers has swept the country, and type 2 diabetes is being diagnosed in people at younger ages. Many studies show a high level of impaired glucose tolerance and high fat levels in the blood of obese children.

Since impaired glucose tolerance is a condition that leads to type 2 diabetes, you should have your child tested if you're worried, says the American Diabetes Association (ADA).

In the meantime, the best way to keep your child’s weight in a healthy range is to set an example of nutritious eating and exercise. Here are some ideas:

Swap out unhealthy meals and snacks for healthier versions – decrease the fat and sugars and increase the fruit and vegetables.

Plan active family adventures, such as riding bicycles, hiking, skating or swimming.

Set family goals, awarding non-food prizes (such as an outing at a favorite place or park) for accomplishing group goals.

Walk together wherever you can – to the park, practice, school, friends’ homes.

If you make these changes and your child still has trouble staying within a healthy weight range, the ADA recommends that you see a specialist for help.

Reprinted from 101 Tips for Simplifying Diabetes by the University of New Mexico Diabetes Care Team. Copyright by the American Diabetes Association. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

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