Learning About High Cholesterol in Children

What is high cholesterol?

Cholesterol is a type of fat (lipid) in the blood. It is needed for many body functions. Cholesterol is made by the body and also comes from food your child eats. It is found in foods that are made from animal products (meat and dairy products).

High cholesterol means your child has too much of this type of fat in their blood.

High cholesterol can be caused by eating food with too much saturated fat in it or by being at a higher weight. It can also run in families.

High cholesterol has no symptoms. You may find out that your child has high cholesterol when your child's doctor does a routine cholesterol test.

How can you prevent high cholesterol in children?

You can help your child do things to prevent high cholesterol.

• Encourage your child to be active each day. Your child may like to take a walk with you, ride a bike, or play sports.
• Help your child reach and stay at a weight that's healthy for them.
• Have your child eat heart-healthy foods every day.
  • Try adding more fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds at meals and snacks.
  • Foods high in fiber may reduce cholesterol levels and provide important vitamins and minerals. High-fiber foods include whole-grain cereals and breads, oatmeal, beans, brown rice, citrus fruits, and apples.
  • Choose foods that are low in saturated fat.
  • Use olive or canola oil when you cook.
  • Have your child eat lean proteins, such as seafood, lean meats, and soy products (like tofu).
  • Choose low-fat or fat-free milk and dairy products.
  • Limit salt (sodium) and added sugar in your child's food and beverages.
  • Limit processed and packaged foods like chips, crackers, and cookies.

How is high cholesterol treated?

• Treatment includes eating healthy foods, staying at a weight that's healthy for your child, and being more active. Work with your child's doctor or a dietitian to make a healthy eating plan your child can follow while trying to lower cholesterol.
• Treatment may also include medicine. If this is true for your child, have your child take medicines exactly as prescribed. Call your doctor if you think your child is having a problem with the medicine.

Follow-up care is a key part of your child's treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if your child is having problems. It's also a good idea to know your child's test results and keep a list of the medicines your child takes.