What factors contribute to elevated cholesterol in children and adolescents?
High cholesterol in children and adolescents is caused by three major factors:
An unhealthy diet, particularly one heavy in fats
A high cholesterol family history, particularly if one or both parents have high cholesterol
Obesity
Diabetes, renal illness, and certain thyroid problems can all cause high cholesterol in adolescents and teenagers.
Healthy cholesterol levels are defined as anyone aged 19 or younger.
| Type of Cholesterol | Healthy Level |
| Total Chlolesterol | Less than 170mg/dL |
| Non-HDL | Less than 120mg/dL |
| LDL | Less than 100mg/dL |
| HDL | Morethan 45mg/dL |
What are the treatments？
The primary treatment for elevated cholesterol in children and adolescents is lifestyle changes. These modifications include:
Increased activity. This involves getting frequent exercise and sitting less (in front of a television, at a computer, on a phone or tablet, etc.)
Eating well is important. Limiting foods heavy in saturated fat, sugar, and trans fat is part of a cholesterol-lowering diet. It is also critical to consume a variety of fresh fruits, veggies, and entire grains.
Losing weight if your child or adolescent is overweight or obese
It will be simpler for your child or teen to keep to these changes if everyone in the family makes them. It is also an opportunity to enhance your own health as well as the health of others.