Cholesterol is an essential substance that helps our body to function properly, but high levels of cholesterol can lead to serious health problems such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.

Kids are not immune to high cholesterol levels and can also suffer from the same health problems that adults face. Therefore, it’s crucial for parents to take steps to lower cholesterol levels in kids. Here are some tips for parents to help lower their kid’s cholesterol levels.

1. Encourage Physical Activities

Encourage your kids to engage in physical activities such as sports and outdoor games. Physical activities help to burn calories, improve blood circulation and promote healthy cholesterol levels.

Physical activities also help to maintain a healthy weight which is essential for preventing cholesterol problems.

2. Serve Heart-Healthy Foods

Serve food that is low in saturated fats and high in fiber. Foods like fruit, vegetables, whole grains, lean meats, fish, and nuts can help to lower cholesterol levels in kids.

Try to avoid processed, sugary, and fatty foods which can raise cholesterol levels.

3. Limit Screen Time

Limit the amount of time your kids spend watching TV, playing video games or using their smartphones. Too much screen time can lead to a sedentary lifestyle which is a major risk factor for high cholesterol in kids.

Encourage your kids to engage in outdoor activities, read books, or play board games instead.

4. Switch to Low-Fat Dairy Products

Swap to low-fat or non-fat dairy products such as skim milk, low-fat cheese, and yogurt.

These dairy products are a great source of calcium, vitamin D, and protein, but they are also low in saturated fats which can help to lower cholesterol levels in kids.

5. Make Healthy Snacks Choices

Provide your kids with healthy snack options such as fresh fruits, yogurt, and nuts instead of sugary and processed snacks. Encourage your kids to try new fruits or vegetables and prepare them in various ways to make them more appealing.

6. Practice Portion Control

Teach your kids about portion control. Eating too much of even healthy foods can lead to weight gain which is a risk factor for high cholesterol. Encourage your kids to listen to their body’s hunger cues and to eat slowly and mindfully.

7. Set a Good Example

Setting a good example is vital as your kids learn best by observing your behaviors. Therefore, make healthy choices yourself and involve your kids in your healthy lifestyle.

Cook together, take walks or bike rides together, and involve your kids in planning your family’s meals so they learn how to make healthy choices.

8. Avoid Trans Fats

Avoid trans fats which can increase the levels of LDL (‘bad’) cholesterol in the blood. Trans fats are often found in processed foods, baked goods, and fried foods. Encourage your kids to eat unprocessed foods and home-cooked meals.

9. Encourage Hydration

Encourage your kids to drink plenty of water and avoid sugary drinks such as soda and juice. Drinking water helps to flush out toxins and increases the metabolism which can aid in lowering cholesterol levels.