Type 1 Diabetes and Food: What School Staff Should Know

Key Wellness + Safety Strategies for School Staff (Type 1 Diabetes & Food)

Broaden the “food rules” mindset

• Unless a student has allergies or food intolerances, no foods are automatically off limits.
• The main difference is extra planning around meals/snacks and insulin timing.

Match food intake with blood sugar management

• Carbohydrates raise blood sugar.
• Insulin lowers blood sugar.
• Students should know how many carbs are in the foods they eat to:
  • Follow their meal plan
  • Determine how much insulin they need

Follow the student’s Individual Care Plan (ICP)

• If insulin is needed during the school day, the ICP should contain detailed instructions for lunch and snacks.
• If insulin is given at home, the student must eat lunch and snacks on time—delays can lead to low blood sugar.

Protect against missed/delayed meals

• Because insulin dosing depends on how much food will be eaten, ensure the student has enough time to finish lunch and snacks.
• Younger children may require more supervision to prevent delays.

Avoid food sharing/substitution

• Students with diabetes should not share or substitute food during the school day.
• This helps maintain accurate carb/insulin alignment and reduces risk of glucose swings.

Include students during special food events (with planning)

• Treats and participation are encouraged—students with diabetes can be included in events (e.g., birthday celebrations, Halloween).
• Parents/guardians should be notified at least 1 day in advance so they can:
  • Adjust the student’s meal plan
  • Adjust insulin, or
  • Create an alternative plan for the event

Presenters / Sources

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