Concerned about high cholesterol in your child or teen? You are not alone. Medical professionals have observed a problematic increase in cholesterol levels in young people in recent years, coinciding with the general rise in obesity in the America.
High cholesterol levels in young people are concerning because they can set the stage for a lifetime of health problems, including an increased risk for heart disease, heart attack or stroke.
According to Suzanne Rostler, MS, RD, LDN, a registered dietitian in private practice in Wellesley, Massachusetts, and co-author of the book "Ending the Food Fight," it isn't simply dietary cholesterol that should be avoided to lower total cholesterol level in kids and teens.
"When targeting high cholesterol levels, it's important to first consider the amount of saturated fat in the diet. That's because saturated fat has a greater effect on cholesterol levels than does dietary cholesterol. Saturated fat is found in meats and dairy, so take stock of ice cream and cheese slices in addition to red meat and butter," recommends Rostler.
What Parents Can Do
Brenda J. Ponichtera, registered dietitian and author of "Quick & Healthy Recipes and Ideas," (Small Steps Press, 2008) provides tips for parents: "Have healthy foods available for snacks. Some easy choices are: a variety of fresh fruit, raw vegetables -- already cleaned, cut and ready to eat, low-fat frozen yogurt, low-fat ice milk, frozen fruit bars, rice cakes, corn cakes (caramel flavor is my favorite), light microwave popcorn (butter flavor or kettle corn), low-fat ranch dressing for a vegetable dip, fat-free fruit flavored yogurt for a fruit dip or alone, low-fat crackers and low-fat cookies." Ponichtera also advises "Not keeping junk food available at home" and feels that ultimately it is most important to "Be an example, practice what you preach, as that speaks much louder than words."
Calculate your child's calorie requirements.
Cholesterol-Friendly Meals for Kids
Breakfasts
Peach Oatmeal (contains walnuts)
Crockpot Apple Oatmeal (use low-fat milk)
Lunches and Dinners
Turkey Wraps (Omit Bacon, and use whole-wheat tortilla)
Tuna and Macaroni (Use light mayonnaise instead of regular mayonnaise, and water-packed tuna instead of oil-packed. Use whole wheat macaroni).
Snacks
Garlic Hummus With Pita Wedges
Remember that children of any age should never be encouraged to "diet" or follow a special meal pattern unless directed to do so by a physician.
