When it comes to cholesterol, many people assume that it only affects adults. However, children can be affected by high cholesterol levels too. In fact, high cholesterol is becoming increasingly common in children with unhealthy lifestyles.

This is a concerning issue because high cholesterol levels in children can lead to serious health risks. In this article, we will discuss the hidden risks of cholesterol in children and what you can do to avoid them.

What is cholesterol?

Cholesterol is a type of fat (lipid) that is naturally produced in our bodies. It is present in every cell and is important for various functions such as producing hormones, building cell walls, and digesting food.

There are two types of cholesterol: low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL).

LDL cholesterol is often referred to as “bad” cholesterol because when there is too much of it in the blood, it can lead to the buildup of plaque in the arteries. This can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke.

HDL cholesterol, on the other hand, is referred to as “good” cholesterol because it helps remove LDL cholesterol from the blood.

Why is high cholesterol a concern in children?

It’s uncommon for children to have high cholesterol levels, but it is becoming more prevalent. This is largely due to the rise in childhood obesity and unhealthy diets.

High cholesterol levels in children can lead to atherosclerosis, which is the buildup of plaque in the arteries.

Since atherosclerosis typically develops over time, it’s important for parents and healthcare providers to monitor children’s cholesterol levels to prevent future health issues.

If left untreated, high cholesterol levels in children can lead to heart disease, stroke, and other health problems later in life.

What causes high cholesterol in children?

There are several factors that can contribute to high cholesterol levels in children, including:.

Unhealthy diet: A diet high in saturated and trans fat, processed foods, and sugary drinks can lead to high cholesterol levels.
Lack of exercise: Physical activity helps reduce LDL cholesterol and increase HDL cholesterol. Children who are inactive are more likely to have high cholesterol levels.
Family history: Genetics can play a role in high cholesterol levels. If one or both parents have high cholesterol, their children may be more likely to have it too.
Obesity: Being overweight or obese can cause high cholesterol levels.

How can high cholesterol levels be detected in children?

High cholesterol levels don’t usually cause any symptoms, so the best way to detect them is through a blood test.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children have their cholesterol levels checked at least once between the ages of 9 and 11, and again between the ages of 17 and 21. Children who have a family history of high cholesterol or heart disease may need to be tested earlier.

What are the treatment options for high cholesterol in children?

The first line of treatment for high cholesterol in children is lifestyle changes. These may include:.

Healthy diet: Encouraging a diet that is low in saturated and trans fat and high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Regular exercise: Encouraging at least 60 minutes of physical activity every day.
Weight management: Encouraging healthy weight management through a combination of diet and exercise.

If lifestyle changes aren’t enough to lower cholesterol levels, medication may be necessary.

However, medication should only be considered if lifestyle changes have been tried and failed or if the child has an underlying medical condition that requires medication.

How can high cholesterol be prevented in children?

The best way to prevent high cholesterol in children is through a healthy lifestyle. This includes:.

Encouraging a healthy diet that is low in saturated and trans fat and high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Encouraging regular physical activity.
Helping children maintain a healthy weight.
Encouraging healthy habits that can reduce the likelihood of developing heart disease or stroke later in life.

The bottom line

High cholesterol levels are becoming increasingly common in children due to unhealthy lifestyles. As a parent, it’s important to encourage healthy habits that can prevent high cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of future health issues.

Remember, prevention is always better than treatment.