Carbohydrate counting is becoming an increasingly important part of managing diabetes in children, particularly for those with Type 1, and is often recommended for those with Type 2 as well, according to a leading doctor in Bahrain.
The approach helps determine the exact dose of mealtime insulin needed to match the carbohydrate intake, supporting more stable blood glucose levels while allowing greater flexibility in what children can eat.
For children with Type 1 diabetes, whose bodies no longer produce insulin, this method is essential.
Clinical dietician and Bahrain Diabetes Society member Areej Alsaad told the GDN that, rather than following a strict, restrictive diet, carbohydrate counting allows children to enjoy a wider variety of foods while still maintaining control over their condition.
“Managing blood sugar is more complex than simply avoiding sweets,” she said.
“Blood sugar control depends largely on the total amount of carbohydrates consumed – not just the type.
“Carbohydrates are the body’s main source of energy. However, eating large portions – even of healthy foods – such as rice, bread or fruit can cause sharp increases in glucose levels.”
Dr Alsaad said this is why portion size plays a critical role in blood sugar control.
Dr Alsaad
“For example, a small portion of rice will have a much smaller effect on blood sugar than a large serving, even if both are the same type of carbohydrate.”
Current guidelines suggest carbohydrates should make up between 45 per cent to 60pc of a child’s total daily energy intake.
“For most school-aged children, this typically equates to about 40–60 grams of carbohydrates per main meal and 10–20 grams per snack,” she explained.
“As a practical guide, one cup of cooked rice contains about 30 grams of carbohydrates, while a small piece of fruit provides around 15 grams.”
Dr Alsaad, however, noted that carbohydrate-counting is not necessary for healthy children. Instead, their focus should be on balanced meals and sensible portion sizes.
She also pointed out that stable blood sugar levels play a key role not only in physical health but also in a child’s ability to concentrate and learn.
“Rapid rises and falls in blood sugar can lead to poor concentration, irritability, mood swings and fatigue,” Dr Alsaad said.
“Over time, repeated spikes may increase the risk of insulin resistance and future metabolic diseases.”
Warning signs of unstable blood sugar can include sudden hunger or cravings, difficulty focusing, bursts of hyperactivity followed by tiredness, as well as irritability or noticeable changes in behaviour.
“Parents are encouraged to maintain regular meal times, include protein at breakfast and limit sugary drinks, while schools can support children by offering healthier food options and keeping structured meal schedules,” said Dr Alsaad.
Meanwhile, King Abdullah Medical City’s University Medical Centre senior paediatric consultant professor Mohammed Elbatagi highlighted the importance of including a variety of colourful foods in children’s diet.
Dr Elbatagi
“Colourful foods are more than just visually appealing – they are packed with essential nutrients that support growth and overall wellbeing,” he told the GDN, noting that this approach is especially helpful for children with Type 1 diabetes.
He explained that each colour on the plate reflects different nutritional benefits.
“Green vegetables such as spinach and broccoli are rich in fiber and minerals, with minimal impact on blood sugar,” he explained, adding that red foods such as tomatoes and strawberries provide vitamin C and antioxidants, while orange and yellow choices – carrots, pumpkin, and mango – offer beta-carotene important for vision and immunity.
“Purple foods such as blueberries and grapes contribute protective compounds for long-term health. Even white foods, often overlooked, play a role: milk and yoghurt provide calcium, while whole grains deliver steady, sustained energy.”
Dr Elbatagi also outlined what a balanced day of eating might look like for a child.
“It might begin with wholegrain toast, an egg, and slices of cucumber and tomato, followed by yoghurt with berries as a snack,” he said.
“Lunch could include grilled chicken, brown rice, and a mix of broccoli and carrots, while dinner might feature fish, a small portion of potatoes or pasta, and a fresh salad.”
Fruits, nuts, and dairy can be added between meals, and even an occasional treat has its place when balanced appropriately.
“The goal is not perfection, but pattern,” he added.
In Bahrain, more than 15 per cent of adults are living with diabetes, with contributing factors including genetics, low physical activity, higher body weight, unbalanced diets and lack of sleep. Common symptoms include excessive thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, mood changes, blurred vision and slow-healing wounds.
To help address the issue early, the Mobile Diabetes Unit was introduced in 2012 through a collaboration between the Bahrain Diabetes Society and RCSI Bahrain. The initiative targets grade three students, aiming to instil healthy habits from a young age so that children not only adopt these behaviours themselves but also pass them on within their families.
julia@gdnmedia.bh
Nutrition experts recommend structuring meals so that half of the plate is filled with vegetables and fruits, one quarter with carbohydrates such as rice, bread, or pasta, and the remaining quarter with protein sources like chicken, fish, or legumes.
This balance helps slow glucose absorption and provides more sustained energy. Families can also manage carbohydrate intake at home by using simple portion estimates. For example, one slice of bread, half a cup of cooked rice, and one small fruit each contain approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates, making it easier to gauge portions at home.
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