Nutrition for A Healthy Heart is the Best V-Day Gift
For Valentine’s Day (Feb 14th), give your child the gift of nutrition for a healthy heart.
Research studies conclude that fats start accumulating in arteries right from childhood and this occurs more in people with high blood cholesterol levels.
To avoid risks associated with heart health, please stick to the following facts:·
- Avoid smoking cigarettes·
- Keep high blood pressure levels in check·
- Prevent and reduce obesity rates·
- Diagnose diabetes and treat it·
- Indulge in regular physical exercises, such as walking or aerobic activity for 30 to 60 minutes on most days of the week.
- Train kids to eat enough fruits and vegetables daily while avoiding foods high in saturated fats, trans fats and cholesterol.
- Normal blood cholesterol levels for kids aged between 2 and 19 years include:
Levels Total Cholesterol (mg/dL) LDL Cholesterol (mg/dL)
High 200 or greater 130 or greater
Borderline 170 to 199 100 to 129
Acceptable Less than 170 Less than 100
If you are concerned about your blood cholesterol levels, you can contact a dietitian/nutritionist who would be heartily willing to help you control cholesterol levels and provide a healthy diet plan to maintain an optimal weight.