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Children with high cholesterol is getting common and is a raising concern. In this article we look at what it is can what can be done

What is high cholesterol ? High cholesterol as the name suggested, meant that there is an high level of cholesterol then normal in the blood. Factors that can contribute to high cholesterol include, lifestyle, diet, genetic and diseases. This condition can lead to heart attack, stroke and other vascular related disorder. The excessive cholesterol will eventually coat the arteries wall with as a layer of sticky plaque that will narrowed the blood vessels. This can slowed or even slowed the blood flow to heart, brain and other organs.

Why Cholesterol ? Cholesterol is produce by our liver naturally and it is essential to our body function as it is use to create hormones and cells. Other then those produced by our body, cholesterol can also be taken from our food source such as animal meat, fish, eggs and dairy products. We cannot survive without cholesterol neither is too much of it good for us. A balance approached is the best.

Children’s cholesterol Children cholesterol level are measured differently from that of an adult. For age 2 to 19 years old, total cholesterol level should be under 170 with LDL cholesterol below 100. Total cholesterol at 170 to 200 and LDL between 100 and 130 is considered borderline risk. For children with cholesterol of more then 200 level and LDL level of more then 130 are considered high risk, more so for girls with HDL levels of under 50 and boys at levels below 45. Children with LDL levels over 100 will most likely be treated for high cholesterol especially if they have a family history of heart problems, more so if the child have previous heart problems.

Do kids need treatment? There are several reasons why children with high cholesterol need to be treated. Having higher cholesterol levels at a young age can place them at an increased risk for cholesterol-related problems as adults. Arterial damage can occur from cholesterol even in young adults and teens. Plus, healthy habits are learned, so teaching them at a young age can protect kids from health problems later on.

Treatment for high cholesterol For most children, dietary changes are the primary treatment for high cholesterol. Making these changes can improve your child’s overall health as well as the health of the rest of your family. Limit fat intake to under 30% of the calories eaten in a day. Keep calorie counts between 1500 and 2400 calories per day, depending on your child’s age and activity levels. Cut back on saturated fats whenever possible, choosing lean meats, low fat dairy products, and healthier cooking oils. Do not limit fat entirely. Increase fiber intake to 25-30 grams per day by including whole grains, cereals and vegetables into the diet. Avoid sugary foods as much as possible, particularly nutrient-void foods like candy and sodas.

The dietary change will be most meaningful if the entire family takes part in it. Firstly the child will learn quickly from example set by their parents and most importantly, they will not feel single out. Make these healthy diet as appealing as possible. Allowing kids to plan and prepare the meal will help them eat what were planned more easily. Encourage outdoor activities on a hourly a day basis. However, be realistic too, there is no way to avoid completely video game and candy in our modern society today. Moderation is the key to healthy and happy children.

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