High cholesterol, a health concern that increases a person's risk for heart disease, is mainly thought of as a part of aging and a disease that affects adults. The American Heart Association explains that children can also suffer from high cholesterol, which is the buildup of plaque inside a person's arteries. Total cholesterol readings of 170 mg/dl or higher in a child between the ages of two- and 19-years-old are considered borderline-high, or high, depending on how high the levels measure. LDL, the "bad" kind of cholesterol in a person's blood, should read under 100 mg/dl in a child. Higher levels may indicate a problem that can be treated with a low cholesterol diet. Low cholesterol diets include not only choosing low-fat options, but re-thinking the role that food plays in a child's life.
Risk Factors for High Cholesterol
Children who are overweight, have parents who are overweight or who have high cholesterol have an increased risk of developing high cholesterol. Kids who consume large amounts of saturated fats are also at risk. Fried foods, many snack foods that appeal to children, and animal proteins (meats) all contain saturated fats.
Time Frame for Change
According to the Cardiology Channel, children under two years need to consume higher levels of fat than older children, to ensure normal brain development and support their rapid physical growth. Toddlers in this age group should not be restricted in terms of calories or fat consumption, unless their pediatricians have reason to believe such a change outweighs the benefits of whole milk and dairy products. Children between the ages of two and 19 should make changes, under the supervision of their doctors and parents, if a diagnosis of high cholesterol is determined. The American Heart Association acknowledges the fact that high cholesterol can be a progressive disease that is linked with childhood obesity and can continue into a child's adult life, if not treated early.
Choose Low-Fat Options
A low-cholesterol diet for children can include low-fat variations of foods that are already part of his diet. Skim milk for children over the age of two can replace milk with higher concentrations of fat. Reduced fat or fat-free cheese on sandwiches, pizza and pastas can also help lower cholesterol levels. The American Academy of Family Physicians recommends using low-fat lunch meats such as turkey or grilled chicken and whole grain breads when packing school lunches for children who have high cholesterol. Fruits and vegetables can be made into bite-sized finger foods or "kabobs" that may them more palatable to a child. Snacks, such as popcorn without butter, can provide children with fiber, which plays a role in reducing blood cholesterol levels as well. The University of Michigan Health Systems suggests that the entire family follow a low-fat, low-cholesterol diet, not just the child with health concerns, especially if higher cholesterol levels run in the family.
Re-Evaluate Eating Patterns
A low cholesterol diet can help a child regular her blood cholesterol levels, but the entire family's pattern of eating may also need to be evaluated. Portion control should be implemented to help an overweight child lose weight if this is one of the factors in her cholesterol issues.The University of Michigan Health System suggests that meats and fatty foods be served in "moderately sized portions;" The American Heart Association (AHA) suggests that only 30 percent of a child's daily calorie intake should come from fats. Limiting calories may be necessary in conjunction with a low cholesterol diet to help an overweight child manage her weight and cholesterol levels. The AHA states that children between the ages of one and 18 only require between 900 and 2200 calories daily, depending on the age and gender of the child. Many fast food meals pack an entire day's worth of calories or more into one meal.
When a child eats may also need to change as part of a low cholesterol diet. Children who watch a lot of television or play primarily indoors may tend to snack more than those who are more active. Parents who use food as a reward system for their childrens' achievements may also want to rethink their strategy if their offspring develop high cholesterol or other health problems.
Considerations
Daily exercise should also be a part of any child's life, but especially those who are overweight or have high cholesterol. The University of Michigan Health System explains that exercise--jumping rope, playing outdoor games and sports, taking walks around the neighborhood--can help a child (and adults too) raise his level of good cholesterol. Higher levels of HDL can help drop dangerously high total cholesterol levels. Implementing a family exercise program can help parents set a good example for their children, and can be a fun way to spend time together.
