What Causes High Cholesterol in Children?

Despite contrary belief, adults are not the only people who can suffer from high cholesterol. Children, too, can suffer from levels of cholesterol that are too high, which can lead to help problem as the child grows older. High cholesterol is caused by a buildup of fatty plaque on artery walls, which makes it more difficult for blood to flow from the heart to other organs. Fortunately, high cholesterol levels in children can be controlled, but first it's necessary to understand what the cause of the high cholesterol is.

Heredity

• In that majority of cases where a child has high cholesterol, the child's parent also has an elevated level of cholesterol. This genetic trait is passed down from either the mother or father during conception. Unfortunately, children who suffer from high cholesterol as a result of heredity are not able to resist their susceptibility to the ailment. However, it is possible to regulate cholesterol levels by paying attention to the foods a child consumes and her weight.

Poor Diet

• High levels of cholesterol may develop as a result of a poor diet. Foods rich in fatty substances with high amounts of saturated fat and cholesterol (such as processed chips and fast food) increase levels of cholesterol in a child's body. Children should avoid these foods and substitute fruits, vegetables, breads, cereals, fish, poultry and low-fat dairy products.

No Exercise

• Every human body needs to get a regular dose of exercise. That includes children, who increase their odds of developing high cholesterol if they lead sedentary lifestyles. Daily aerobic exercise is suggested and includes running, walking, swimming, biking, dancing and playing sports. Exercise not only helps a child maintain a healthy weight, but it also pushes blood through arteries at a more forceful rate, which increases blood flow from the heart to other organs in the body.

Obesity

• Children who are above their suggested weight limit are at risk for high cholesterol. Because of this fact, it's very important for a child to maintain a healthy weight. Some children are more likely to gain weight than others based on hereditary traits and should respond to this appropriately by being more careful of the types of food consumed and their daily level of activity.

Treatment

• The most effective treatment for children with high levels of cholesterol is to get them involved in a diet and exercise program. To increase motivation, involve the entire family in this endeavor. In severe cases where diet and exercise are ineffective, a trip to the doctor is in order. There are several types of safe, medically tested drugs that can decrease a child's cholesterol level.