Why do children with type 1 diabetes gradually become thinner?

Generally, weight loss in children with type 1 diabetes may be caused by insufficient energy intake, excessive physical activity, gastrointestinal dysfunction, inadequate insulin secretion, or diabetic ketoacidosis. If discomfort symptoms occur, it is recommended to seek timely treatment at a regular hospital. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Insufficient Energy Intake

Some children with type 1 diabetes excessively restrict their diet, leading to inadequate daily intake of calories and nutrients required for growth and development. The body then starts consuming its own fat and protein, causing weight loss. A healthcare provider or nutritionist should guide adjustments to the dietary plan, ensuring sufficient intake of calories, protein, and vitamins daily, such as appropriately increasing consumption of foods like eggs, milk, and lean meat.

2. Excessive Physical Activity

Children are naturally active and energetic. If their level of physical activity far exceeds their energy intake, large amounts of stored fat and protein in the body will be consumed, leading to weight loss. It is important to reasonably schedule activity duration and intensity, avoid excessive exercise, and supplement with carbohydrates such as bread and fruits after physical activity.

3. Gastrointestinal Dysfunction

Long-term high blood sugar levels may affect normal gastrointestinal motility and digestive function, causing symptoms such as bloating, diarrhea, or constipation in children, which can impair nutrient absorption and lead to weight loss. Under medical guidance, medications such as Bifidobacterium Triligulans Powder, Bacillus Subtilis and Bifidobacterium Lactis Live Bacteria Granules, or Lactase Tablets may be used to regulate intestinal flora and improve gastrointestinal function.

4. Insufficient Insulin Secretion

Children with type 1 diabetes have an absolute deficiency of insulin in their bodies and are unable to effectively utilize glucose in the bloodstream. As a result, the body breaks down fat and protein to supply energy, ultimately leading to weight loss. Under medical guidance, insulin injections should be used properly, such as Aspart Insulin Injection, Lispro Insulin Injection, or Protamine Zinc Insulin Injection, to control blood glucose levels and reduce the breakdown of fat and protein.

5. Diabetic Ketoacidosis

When insulin is severely deficient, the body extensively breaks down fat to produce ketones, triggering ketoacidosis. This can cause symptoms in children such as nausea, vomiting, and reduced appetite, further exacerbating weight loss. Immediate medical attention is required. Intravenous administration of insulin injection, normal saline, potassium chloride injection, and other treatments should be used to correct metabolic disturbances and alleviate symptoms.

In daily life, regular blood glucose monitoring is important, adjusting insulin dosage according to blood glucose levels; maintaining regular meals and avoiding picky eating; closely monitoring the child's weight changes and mental condition, seeking medical attention promptly when abnormalities occur; and undergoing regular growth and development assessments to ensure normal growth in children.