Seeds of Heart Health
Are your kids' current habits guaranteeing their heart health in adulthood?
A recent study revealed that obesity in childhood could lead to an enlarged heart when a child grows up. Ward off extra weight in your child now by encouraging physical activities during play and leisure time, organizing balanced meals with the family, and limiting sugary snacks and beverages.
Researchers discovered that, compared to people who were an appropriate weight when they were children, adults who had been obese when they were young were more likely to have enlarged hearts when they grew up. An enlarged heart increases the risk of heart disease because -- regardless of age -- when people are overweight their hearts have to work harder to pump blood. Over time, this can change the structure of the heart, making the muscle thicker, and an enlarged heart does not pump blood efficiently. Childhood is the perfect time to instill behaviors that will prevent weight problems and all the related health complications. Focus on healthy habits, rather than body size, to help protect your child's self-image and help keep the spotlight on the real goal -- a longer, healthier life. Experts do not recommend dieting for most children. However, if your child is very overweight, or if you're not sure if your child is an appropriate weight for his or her age and height, consult your healthcare provider.
Try these heart-healthy snack ideas for kids.
