Dear Concerned Mummy,

Thank you for your question to the forum

Yes, it is okay for children to eat pasta. There are many myths about foods and diabetes.

The exact cause of type 1 diabetes is not yet known, but we do know it has a strong family link and cannot be prevented (I note you mention that there is no family history). We also know development of type 1 diabetes has nothing to do with lifestyle, although maintaining a healthy lifestyle is very important in helping to manage type 1 diabetes. There are currently trials underway to find out triggers for type 1 diabetes.

Type 2 diabetes, in kids is closely related to obesity, usually through inactivity and poor diet. Pasta is low GI and therefore a nutritious choice (limit the high fat creamy sauces).

Please find attached a link to the Dietitian’s Association of Australia website that talks about infant feeding for the first 12 months of life. This discusses breast feeding and age appropriate introduction of solids. You will note that it mentions that ‘from about 8 months, offering finger foods such as pieces of fresh soft pear, cooked baby carrots and cooked pasta noodles will encourage self feeding’.

http://www.daa.asn.au/index.asp?PageID=2145834462

Kylie Alexander