Licking Memorial Health Systems Published 2:10 p.m. ET Feb. 19, 2020

Compared to other developed countries, children in the United States consume more saturated fat and have higher cholesterol levels, which are key contributors to heart disease the nations leading cause of death. Heredity also is an important factor in heart disease if there is previous history in the family, a child may be at future risk. Other factors that may further increase a childs risk of heart disease include:

Heart disease may be unavoidable; however, parents can teach their child to live a healthy life through a heart-healthy diet, exercise and regular visits to a physician. Parents should consider the below recommendations for their family:

While shopping for food and preparing meals, involve children to teach them about healthy foods and reading food labels. Observing the cooking process will teach children kitchen skills and show them that healthy foods are delicious.

Children also should exercise for at least one hour each day and should reduce time spent on sedentary activities, including watching television and playing video games. Visiting a physician once a year helps to detect any potential health issues and can identify if any needed changes in diet and exercise.

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Active Fit: Lowering the risk of heart disease at an early age - The Newark Advocate