Type 2 Diabetes Program
Our innovative approach
The Type 2 Diabetes Program at Boston Children’s Hospital offers specialized care and customized treatment plans to help your child manage her diabetes or diabetes risk factors and live life to the fullest.
Here’s how it works:
- Medical evaluation
A pediatric endocrinologist will perform a physical exam and some laboratory tests to identify any underlying medical conditions (such as a hormone problem) that may be contributing to difficulties with weight management and insulin resistance, as well as potential complications (including high cholesterol and gastrointestinal disease). This evaluation will help our doctors to develop a diabetes treatment or prevention management plan for your child that may include dietary modification, oral medication or, in some cases, injectible insulin. Whatever the management plan, our doctors will give you all the education and support you need to make treatment successful.
- Dietary consultation
A registered dietitian will meet with your child to discuss her eating habits, design an individualized meal plan and meet with your family to talk about the practical implications of getting started with it. We frequently prescribe what’s called a "low glycemic index"diet to help stabilize changes in your child’s blood sugar after eating, thereby helping to control excessive appetite. This diet … Your child’s doctor may also consider other dietary approaches, such as a low-fat diet and a protein-sparing modified fast.
- Education
Our diabetes nurse educators can help your child understand her condition and, if appropriate, how to do the things (such as checking blood glucose level) that help keep it under control. They can also give you the information you need to ensure your child’s health and well-being.
- Counseling and behavior modification
Our therapists will help your child understand the importance of nutrition and other lifestyle choices, review any negative feelings your child may be experiencing as a result of excess weight—including issues related to self-esteem—and establish realistic goals for physical activity.
- Long-term care
Working with you and your child, we will also formulate a plan for long-term follow-up care, including further individual behavioral modification and/or group therapy.
Learn more about our approach to treating type 2 diabetes and what to expect at your first appointment.
