Meal Plan for Jason, an 11-Year-Old with Type 1 Diabetes

Posted: April 4th, 2019

Module 08 Written Assignment – 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).
NOTE
Strictly APA, CITATION, AND REFERENCING, PLAGIARISM-CHECK

_______________________
Meal Plan for Jason, an 11-Year-Old with Type 1 Diabetes:

Breakfast:

1 cup of cooked oatmeal made with water
1 small apple
2 boiled eggs
1 cup of unsweetened almond milk
Snack (Mid-Morning):

10 baby carrots
2 tablespoons of hummus
Lunch:

Whole wheat turkey sandwich with lettuce and tomato
1 small orange
1 cup of raw vegetables (cucumber, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes)
1 cup of sugar-free yogurt
Snack (After School/Soccer Practice):

1 small banana
1 ounce of almonds (approximately 23 almonds)
Dinner:

Grilled chicken breast
1/2 cup of brown rice
1 cup of steamed broccoli
1 small side salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and low-fat dressing
Snack (Evening):

1 cup of sugar-free gelatin
Considerations for Nutrition, Diabetes, and Children:

Consistent Carbohydrate Intake: Children with Type 1 Diabetes require consistent carbohydrate intake to help maintain stable blood sugar levels. It is important for nurses to educate the child and their family about the impact of carbohydrates on blood sugar and help them understand how to count carbohydrates accurately. This knowledge can assist in calculating appropriate insulin dosages and ensure consistent glucose control throughout the day.

Balanced Meals and Snacks: A balanced diet is crucial for children with diabetes to provide them with essential nutrients and maintain optimal blood sugar levels. Nurses should emphasize the importance of including a variety of food groups in each meal and snack, such as lean proteins, whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats. This approach helps prevent sudden spikes or drops in blood sugar and supports overall health and growth.

Timing of Meals and Snacks: The timing of meals and snacks is essential in managing blood sugar levels for children with diabetes. Regular and consistent meal timings help prevent fluctuations in glucose levels and provide a stable energy supply for daily activities. Nurses should work with the child and their family to create a schedule that aligns with their daily routine and includes appropriate snacks before and after physical activities, such as sports practices, to prevent hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia.

References:
American Diabetes Association. (2021). Nutrition therapy for children and adolescents with diabetes. Diabetes Care, 44(Supplement 1), S126-S136. doi: 10.2337/dc21-S011

Palma, S., Vargas-Garcia, E. J., Rodriguez, C., Linn, T., & Campa, V. (2017). Meal planning, timing, and structure: Impact on food intake in diabetic patients. Endocrinology and Nutrition, 64(2), 107-113. doi: 10.1016/j.endonu.2016.11.005