Protecting kids’ heart health is crucial for their long-term health and for overall wellbeing. In kids obvious issues with the heart do not show as most of the time parents concentrate on other health issues. In case of congenital heart condition (CHD) during pregnancy or once the baby is born parents get know about it as it is a birth defect. In growing children, however, heart health issues go unnoticed as parents focus on other common illness like fever and cold. According to experts, most of the time when kids enter adulthood symptoms of heart disease will start showing up and this is a buildup condition due to poor diet and unhealthy habits.

Some of the common reasons for kids’ heart health issues are: obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, exposure to smoking, less or no physical activity, unhealth diet, obesity, build up of fat in arteries and high cholesterol.

To promote kids heart health at young age itself parents must focus on the diet and inculcate health habits in children.

Encourage healthy eating: Be patient especially with picky eaters. Encourage kids to eat. Provide a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy products in kids above age two. Limit the intake of processed foods, sugary snacks, and sugary drinks.

Promote regular physical activity: Encourage at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity every day. Activities can include playing sports, biking, swimming, dancing, or simply playing outside.

Limit screen time: Set reasonable limits on screen time for activities like watching TV, playing video games, or using smartphones. Excessive screen time is associated with sedentary behavior and can contribute to an increased risk of heart disease.

Teach healthy habits: Teach kids the importance of maintaining healthy habits, such as proper handwashing, getting enough sleep, and practicing good oral hygiene. These habits contribute to overall health and well-being.

Maintain a healthy weight: Help children achieve and maintain a healthy weight. Excess weight, especially if carried into adulthood, can increase the risk of heart disease.

Model healthy behavior: Children are more likely to adopt healthy habits if they see their parents and caregivers practicing them. Be a positive role model by making healthy food choices, being physically active, and managing stress.

Encourage family meals: Eat meals together as a family whenever possible. Family meals provide an opportunity to model healthy eating habits, and they offer a chance for bonding and communication.

Promote hydration: Encourage kids to drink water instead of sugary beverages. Staying properly hydrated is essential for overall health.

Be mindful of salt intake: Limit the intake of processed and salty foods. Teach kids to enjoy the natural flavors of foods without excessive use of salt.

Regular health checkups: Schedule regular checkups with a pediatrician to monitor the child’s growth, development, and overall health. This includes blood pressure and cholesterol level checks if deemed necessary.

Teach stress management: Help children develop healthy ways to cope with stress, such as through relaxation techniques, hobbies, or spending time in nature.

Educate about smoking: Teach children about the harmful effects of smoking and secondhand smoke. Ensure a smoke-free environment at home and while traveling or going out.

Encourage active play: Encourage unstructured, active play. Activities like tag, hide and seek, and playing on playgrounds help kids stay physically active and enjoy the benefits of play.

Incorporating these habits into a child’s routine can significantly contribute to their heart health and set the foundation for a lifetime of well-being. Always consult with healthcare professionals for personalized advice based on a child’s specific health needs.

References:

https://www.heart.org/

https://www.stanfordchildrens.org/

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