No kidding, kids need their cholesterol and LDL levels checked
Around 20% of kids ages 12-19 have unhealthy LDL cholesterol levels and far too many children ages 6-12 are also contending with the damage that does to their future. A sedentary lifestyle and epidemic of overweight and obesity (that's 32% of American kids), along with genetic predispositions, are the reasons for youngsters' elevated lousy cholesterol, which is made more damaging by genetic and obesity-related elevation of lipoprotein(a).
That's why new cholesterol guidelines published in Circulation recommend that children ages 9 to 11 have their LDL cholesterol and Lp(a) levels checked and be screened for familial high cholesterol.
If your children's LDL and Lp(a) levels are high or there's an inherited risk, help them reclaim a healthy cardiovascular system.
1. Get your family out walking.
2. Help kids find sports programs or activities they enjoy.
3. Eliminate highly processed foods from your pantry and restaurant visits.
And dig this: 4. Relax.
A study in Pediatrics found that parents' stress may fuel their children's obesity, which is linked to elevated LDL cholesterol. It seems that stressed parents depend on cholesterol-raising fast foods for family meals and may be stressing out their kids, too, fueling their desire for unhealthy comfort foods. But the research also shows that parents who practice meditation and adopt advice about healthy living can stop their children's progressive weight gain and heart-health risks.
So, get your children's LDL and Lp(a) levels checked, help them maintain a healthy weight and enjoy the benefits to all of you from reducing stress. My book, "YOU: Raising Your Child," can also help.
Health pioneer Michael Roizen, M.D., is chief wellness officer emeritus at the Cleveland Clinic and author of four No. 1 New York Times bestsellers. Check out his latest, "The Great Age Reboot: Cracking the Longevity Code for a Younger Tomorrow," and find out more at www.4YOUngevity.com. Email your health and wellness questions to Dr. Mike at questions@4YOUngevity.com.
(c)2026 Michael Roizen, M.D.
Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.
(c) 2026 Michael Roizen, M.D. Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.
Comments