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Information about cholesterol
  Lipid disorders
  Blood testing
  Risks and goals
  Treatments:
    Diet
    Exercise
    Medication
  Children
  Glossary

Children and Lipids

Children can have lipid disorders and there are a variety of ways to treat them. Lipid disorders in children often respond well to changes in health habits. Some childhood lipid disorders are genetically based.  On rare occasion they may need treatment with medication. The Northwest Lipid Research Clinic is experienced in diagnosing and treating children with lipid disorders.

Blood Cholesterol Tests

Testing is not recommended for all children. Testing is recommended if:

• a parent or grandparent had a heart attack, atherosclerosis, or other signs of artery disease at or before age 55.
• a parent's blood cholesterol is higher than 240.

Diet

Research has shown that atherosclerosis can begin at a young age. Starting the habit of heart-healthy eating in childhood can lower the risk of coronary heart disease later in life.

The National Cholesterol Education Program recommends children aged 2 or older eat the same heart healthy  diet that is recommended for adults: high in fruits, vegetable, grains, breads, cereals, and legumes. Dairy products should be low-fat. Also recommended are moderate amounts of lean meats, poultry without skin, and fish. High fat foods such as pizza and hot dogs may be used occasionally if they are balanced with other foods.

Children younger than age 2 should NOT eat a diet that is low in fat or cholesterol. A low-fat diet during that period of development can result in underweight and other health problems. After the age of two, children are encouraged to gradually switch to the same diet as is recommended for adults.

Other lifestyle concerns for children

As with adults, many factors contribute to children's heart health. Lack of aerobic exercise, obesity, smoking, high blood pressure, and diabetes all have negative effects. Fortunately, each of these can be treated or improved. For more information, read...

Diet tips for kids with high cholesterol -- Amer. Academy of Family Physicians

National Cholesterol Education Program -- Facts about cholesterol

Heart Information Network -- Children and diet

American Heart Association -- Cholesterol in Children

Doctor's Guide -- News about cholesterol