Increased levels of cholesterol/ triglycerides can be the result of genetics, obesity and/or a diet high in foods that promote its formation.
The National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute’s (NHLBI) guidelines on reducing cardiovascular disease (CVD) in children and adolescents recommend that ALL children should undergo cholesterol screening once between ages 9-11 years and once between ages 17-21 years
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends testing even earlier, between the ages of 2 to 9 years, if there is family history of dyslipidemia and/or early heart disease or stroke. A detailed medical and diet history will be taken in order to target the key changes needed in the diet and lifestyle in order to lower your child’s blood lipid levels.
The “dietrophy” tools that will be used, based on the latest scientific evidence for best outcome, include:
- Nutrition education (including foods that help lower cholesterol)
- List of foods to prefer/ avoid
- Personalized meal plan – as a guidance
- Tasty recipes
- Support and guidance