My 9-Year-Old Has High Cholesterol
My son was just diagnosed with high cholesterol yesterday. His blood pressure was high as well. He's an active kid, but I do have to watch his sweet tooth. Any tips and ideas on menus and behavior changes would be very much appreciated. He is a bit overweight, though very active with karate and baseball. I don't want him to be overly stressed about this so I'm still trying to figure out how to go about telling him. He tends to be a worrier.
I also have two other daughters so I know that these changes need to be incorporated into the whole family. We've made small changes but I'm sure there's more to be done.
Madelyn Fernstrom, Ph.D.
iVillage Health Editor-at-Large Madelyn H. Fernstrom, Ph.D., CNS, is the Today show’s Diet and Nutrition Editor as well as the... Read more
A: You're on the right track, not wanting your son to be too focused on his weight, but now is the time to make some major lifestyle changes that can really pay off for good health. This always translates into better health for the whole family. You're making some good changes, and small changes over time are the way to go when it comes to health eating. For your son, specifically, you need to determine whether he truly is eating a healthy diet - plenty of fruits and vegetables, lean protein, low-fat dairy, as well as limiting fast food. This kind of eating supports weight control, as well as healthy cholesterol and blood pressure. Plus, quantity counts - even healthy foods have calories. Encourage consumption of colorful fruits and vegetables - which fall into the "unlimited consumption" categories for children.
Also, while it's great that he's in karate and baseball, you might want him to encourage some sustained aerobic activity, like bike riding, or a trampoline. He's also at an age where he'll be having a growth spurt and growing taller - so his weight and height will "even out", as long as he's eating a healthy diet and staying physically active.
Suggest that he (and your other children) come to the supermarket, and look for some new, healthful foods for meals and snacks. Look for some treats, but in single-serving packages - deprivation leads to overeating and sneak eating. Include your children in food preparation, and cooking. It's important to limit consumption of fast food, and processed items, which contain loads of hidden fat, salt, and calories. Good luck!
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