Why Is High Cholesterol Common in Children?
It used to be that we didn't have to worry about health problems until our older years, but now evidence is showing that high cholesterol is common in children. Specifically, scientific evidence has showed that the atherosclerotic process, which is the accumulation of fatty plaque in the arteries, has begun as early as childhood and continues into the stages of adulthood. So what is the source of the childhood cholesterol calamity?
The Root of the Problem
One of the main reasons that high levels of cholesterol are so common in children is that many children don’t exercise and engage in as much physical activity as they should, nor do they eat properly. Not only is high cholesterol common in children, obesity is as well, which is one of the main contributing factors to an individual having high cholesterol.
Studies have shown that bad cholesterol, also known as low-density lipoprotein, is more common in boys than it is girls while girls are more prone to having higher levels of good cholesterol, also known as high-density lipoprotein. Obese children are more likely to have higher levels of cholesterol overall. Not only that, but Hispanic children aged 9 to 11 were found to have more triglycerides and less good cholesterol than non-Hispanic children.
Stepping Away From the Edge
Thankfully, there are several things that children and their parents can do to change the statistics surrounding high cholesterol and children. Preventative efforts include:
- Not smoking around children
- Making sure that kids get enough aerobic exercise
- Identifying high blood pressure as soon as possible and taking steps to treat it
- Diagnosing diabetes early and treating it effectively
- Ensuring that children who are two or older get at least four cups of fruit and vegetables and that they eat a low-fat diet
In addition to the above preventative efforts, parents should also make sure that they test their child’s cholesterol levels, especially children who have a family history of high cholesterol or heat problems.
Putting the Medicine Cart Before the Horse
Another concern is that children are being put on medication when they don’t necessarily need it. It’s much better that a child first change their eating and exercise habits before they start taking any type of medication for their high levels of cholesterol. In most cases, only one to two percent of children with dyslipidemia will need to be put on any kind of medication.
To make things easier for children with high cholesterol, it’s a good idea for their parents to join them in their new eating and exercising habits. Not only is this a great way for everyone in the family to stay healthy, it’s a good way for families to bond.
Six Trees to Plant in the Northwest to Attract Birds
Do You Have What it Takes to Live in a Tiny Home?
webforjason 
Magazine Posts
Table of Contents