Junk Food & Physical Inactivity Caussing Diabetes In Kids? Doc Shares Warning Signs
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Addressing early diabetes in children requires awareness, early screening in high-risk groups, and sustained lifestyle modification.
The combination of rising obesity rates and high-sugar food consumption along with decreased physical activity increases the chances of developing type 2 diabetes at an early age.
In recent years, the health profile of children has been changing in ways that were once considered unlikely. The modern lifestyle patterns children currently follow have led to earlier diagnoses of conditions previously associated with adult patients. The increasing number of diabetes cases among children represents a major public health problem which needs urgent attention. The combination of rising obesity rates and high-sugar food consumption along with decreased physical activity has created a metabolic state that increases the chances of developing type 2 diabetes at an early age.
There are broadly two types of diabetes seen in children – Type 1 diabetes, also known as juvenile diabetes, is usually diagnosed in young children and is insulin-dependent, most often linked to genetic or infectious causes. Dr Vrajendu B B, Consultant, Peadiatrics, Fortis Hospital, Nagarbhavi, Bengaluru, shares, “Type 2 diabetes, traditionally considered an adult lifestyle disease, is now increasingly being detected in younger age groups. In some cases, this early presentation is referred to as maturity-onset diabetes in the young (MODY), reflecting the shift of a once adult-onset condition into childhood.”
Excess body fat, especially abdominal fat, disrupts the body’s insulin response, which is necessary for blood sugar control. Insulin resistance causes blood sugar levels to increase because the body stops processing glucose properly during the initial phase. The dietary patterns which rely on sugary drinks, refined carbs, deep-fried snacks, and packaged foods create blood glucose spikes that lead to unhealthy weight gain.
Dr Vrajendu B B says, “Physical inactivity compounds the problem. Children today spend long hours engaged with screens for education and entertainment, which leaves limited time for outdoor play and structured exercise activities.” The body requires regular movement because it enables muscles to convert glucose into energy and improves insulin sensitivity; without it, metabolic dysfunction develops at a faster rate. Children who use screens excessively face sleep problems, which lead to hormonal imbalances that disrupt appetite regulation, thus increasing their risk of developing diabetes.
Early warning signs may be subtle and are often overlooked by parents as well. “Increased thirst, frequent urination, unusual tiredness, unexplained weight changes, and darkening of the skin around the neck or armpits, medically known as acanthosis nigricans along with recurrent infections represent warning signs of rising blood sugar levels,” shares Dr Vrajendu B B. Without timely detection and management, early diabetes can lead to long-term complications affecting the heart, kidneys, nerves, and eyes, sometimes beginning as early as adolescence.
Prevention must begin at home and be reinforced by schools and communities. Balanced meals rich in whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and adequate protein should replace processed and high-sugar foods. At least 60 minutes of daily physical activity, reduced recreational screen time, consistent sleep routines, and periodic health check-ups are essential protective measures. Regular measurement of height, weight, and Body Mass Index (BMI) serves as a simple yet effective screening method to identify early obesity and metabolic risk in children.
Addressing early diabetes in children requires awareness, early screening in high-risk groups, and sustained lifestyle modification. With timely action, this largely preventable condition can be controlled, protecting long-term health and improving quality of life well into adulthood.
February 28, 2026, 11:01 IST
