There are many doubts when it comes to cholesterol, especially when it is high in children. In view of this, we separate important aspects that everyone should know about this problem, such as its treatment and prevention. Here, too, it is important to clarify misunderstandings about the subject, as is the case with our tip number 1. 10 things you need to know about high cholesterol in childhood:
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Cholesterol is not always a villain
Contrary to what many people think, cholesterol is fundamental to the functioning of our body. It is a type of fat found in the structure of cells and helps in the formation of hormones, vitamin D and even bile acids, fundamental in the digestion of fats.
Read more: Cholesterol – function, transport and normal values
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The relationship between LDL and HDL is linked to cardiovascular problems
A LDL (low-density lipoprotein) is a lipoprotein that transports cholesterol from the liver and intestine to the places where it is needed. A HDL (high-density lipoprotein), in turn, is a lipoprotein that captures excess cholesterol in the tissues and takes it towards the liver, so that it can be excreted. In order to go deeper into these definitions, read our text: LDL and HDL.
When in excess, LDL can deposit on the vessel wall and trigger the formation of atherosclerotic plaque. High blood LDL values and low HDL values relate to the development of atherosclerotic diseasea problem linked to heart attacks and strokes.
Know more: Atherosclerosis – how it occurs, risk factors and symptoms
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Children can have high cholesterol
Children and adolescents may have high cholesterol levels, so it is always good to be aware to those indices in them. The deposit of cholesterol on artery walls can start in childhood, triggering serious problems in adult life, such as heart attacks.
Don’t stop now… There’s more after the publicity 😉
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Children should measure cholesterol
According to the Brazilian Society of Pediatrics, national and international consensuses suggest that the first cholesterol measurement should be performed between the ages of nine and 11 years old. Younger children who have problems such as obesity and heart disease should also have their dosage performed.
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Unhealthy lifestyle habits contribute to increased cholesterol
A sedentary lifestyle and inadequate nutrition can trigger an increase in cholesterol levels.
Among the factors that most contribute to the increase in cholesterol levels in childhood are sedentary lifestyle and the inadequate food. It is clear that health problems and even genetic factors can trigger this condition, however, healthy lifestyle habits are essential to avoid it.
Read too: Sugar in the diet – consequences of exaggerated consumption
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Certain foods should be avoided to prevent cholesterol levels from rising
Some foods contribute to increased cholesterol levels. Among them we can mention foods high in fat, such as french fries, hamburgers, pizzas and ultra-processed foods. Foods rich in sugars and carbohydrates should be avoided, for example: cakes, chocolates and ice cream. Including greens, vegetables and fruits in food is essential.
See more: Infant feeding – food tips that should be avoided in the early years
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Physical activity helps maintain adequate cholesterol levels
As mentioned, a sedentary lifestyle is a contributing factor to increased cholesterol levels. Therefore, spending a lot of time in front of the TV and video games harms the child’s health. The recommended way to prevent high levels of cholesterol, as well as other diseases, is to encourage the child to have a less sedentary life, practicing outdoor sports and games.
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High cholesterol doesn’t always cause symptoms.
Commonly, increased cholesterol levels do not cause symptoms. That’s why periodic evaluations are important.
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Is it possible to treat high cholesterol?
A healthy diet is essential to ensure adequate cholesterol levels.
The treatment of high cholesterol is mainly done with change in lifestyle, reducing sedentary lifestyle and taking care of food. If any disease is related to the condition, it should also be treated. It is worth mentioning that treatment to avoid high cholesterol should be maintained for life and, in some cases, medication may be recommended.
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Performing periodic examinations is essential to discover diseases early
When we do consultations and routine exams, we discover diseases early and we can avoid complications. Therefore, it is important to take the child to the doctor periodically so that their health is analyzed as a whole. O pediatrician and the endocrinologist it is the doctors who can assess the child’s cholesterol levels and thus ensure a healthier life.
By Vanessa Sardinha dos Santos
Biology teacher