What dietary consideration is important for children with diabetes mellitus engaged in sports?

For children with diabetes mellitus who are engaged in sports, it is crucial to manage their blood glucose levels effectively to prevent hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) during physical activity. Consuming a snack about 30 minutes before engaging in sports can help stabilize blood sugar levels. This pre-activity snack generally contains carbohydrates, which provide the necessary energy for the physical exertion involved in sports.

Eating a snack beforehand allows children to maintain their performance and reduces the risk of their blood sugar dropping too low. This is particularly important in children, as they may not be able to communicate symptoms of low blood sugar effectively while focusing on their activity.

Other dietary considerations, such as avoiding snacks altogether or only eating after a game, would not adequately address the needs of a child with diabetes during sports. Regular meals alone may not suffice, as the timing of food intake is essential to effectively balance insulin with activity levels, especially since physical exercise tends to impact glucose levels significantly.