What is high cholesterol ? High cholesterol as the name suggested, meant that there is an high level of cholesterol then normal in the blood. Factors that can contribute to high cholesterol include, lifestyle, diet, genetic and diseases. This condition can lead to heart attack, stroke and other vascular related disorder. The excessive cholesterol will eventually coat the arteries wall with as a layer of sticky plaque that will narrowed the blood vessels. This can slowed or even slowed the blood flow to heart, brain and other organs.

Why have cholesterol? Cholesterol is made naturally in our bodies and is used to create hormones and cells. It is also found in all animal products that we eat, such as fish, eggs, and dairy products. You cannot survive without cholesterol, but you need to make sure that your different cholesterol levels are in balance. Too much of one type or too little of another can put you at an increased risk for heart disease.

Children's cholesterol Children cholesterol level are measured differently from that of an adult. For age 2 to 19 years old, total cholesterol level should be under 170 with LDL cholesterol below 100. Total cholesterol at 170 to 200 and LDL between 100 and 130 is considered borderline risk. For children with cholesterol of more then 200 level and LDL level of more then 130 are considered high risk, more so for girls with HDL levels of under 50 and boys at levels below 45. Children with LDL levels over 100 will most likely be treated for high cholesterol especially if they have a family history of heart problems, more so if the child have previous heart problems.

Do kids need treatment? There are several reasons why children with high cholesterol need to be treated. Having higher cholesterol levels at a young age can place them at an increased risk for cholesterol-related problems as adults. Arterial damage can occur from cholesterol even in young adults and teens. Plus, healthy habits are learned, so teaching them at a young age can protect kids from health problems later on.

The treatments. The most common treatment for children with high cholesterol is through dietary changes. Healthy diet not just benefit the child but also the rest of the family. Not more then 30% of calories should come from fats. Total calories should varies with age and activities level of the child, ranging form 1500 to 2400 a day. Cut as much as possible the consumption of saturated fats from animal, and use fish as alternatives. Lean cut meat, low fat dairy products and healthier cooking oil should be use instead. Do not remove fat completely from the diet, children do need fat to grow, but introduce the healthier type from fish and nuts. Increase the fiber intake to between 25 and 30 grams a day from whole grains, cereals and vegetables. Reduce as much as possible the intake of refine sugar from candy bar and sodas.

Other ways to keep down cholesterol levels Your child will be more successful if the entire family participates in the program. Children learn by example, and this will also prevent them from feeling "singled out". Make foods appealing and try to eat at home as much as possible. Allow kids to participate in meal planning and encourage physical activities. Above all, be realistic. It is next to impossible to avoid the temptation of sugary sweets or a day of video games 100% of the time. By keeping all things in moderation your child can be happy and healthy.