My son is now in his third month of having diabetes and is doing great with his shots and testing, but just in the last few weeks he has became very upset and has approached us crying saying he is getting sick of eating all the time. We are just following the dietitian’s menu, but I don’t like to see him this upset about eating. I’m not sure what to do anymore.

Figuring out how to fit diabetes into your son’s life, instead of changing your son’s life to fit his diabetes, can be a very difficult job. You should be very proud of your son for telling you how frustrated he is feeling because now you can work with him to try and find a solution. Often times, children hold-in their frustrations so that they don’t upset their parents. So, please praise your son for being open with you!

No one with diabetes should be forced to eat (unless they’re having a low, in which case they do need fast-acting carbs). There are lots of different kinds of insulins that can be used to adjust your son’s insulin regimen to fit his style of eating. I’m assuming he feels comfortable eating at least three meals and a bed-time snack, but that the additional snacks are too much for him.

Please call your son’s diabetes team and let them know how frustrated your son is. In particular, be sure to talk with your team’s dietitian who will be able to work with you to adjust his eating schedule and food quantities. If your diabetes care provider does not have a diabetes dietitian used to working with kids, please ask to talk with one, or contact your local American Diabetes Association office to get referrals to dietitians with expertise in working with children with diabetes.

JWB

[Editor’s comment: Sweet Kids: How to Balance Diabetes Control & Good Nutrition with Family Peace by Betty Brackenridge and Richard Rubin is a great reference for dealing with these issues.

SS]