Heart health for kids: teach smart habits now for a healthy heart later.

Obesity in children and adolescents is becoming a major health issue. More than 12 million U.S. children and teenagers are considered to be obese, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

“Childhood obesity can lead to significant increases in heart disease risk factors in adulthood, including type 2 diabetes, atherosclerosis, high blood pressure and high cholesterol,” says Chuan-Chau Jou, DO, a Cleveland Clinic Children’s pediatric cardiologist at Fairview Hospital.

To help reduce risks, parents can adopt these lifestyle habits in the home:

• Commit to eating at home more often, where you have more control over ingredients used.

• Eat meals together to help reduce the chance of children eating the wrong foods or snacking too much.

• Reduce or eliminate soda, sports and energy drinks, fruit juices, enhanced waters and other sugary beverages. Drink water, unsweetened tea or sugarfree beverages instead. • Involve children in meal planning and preparation.

• Use herbs and spices, instead of salt, to add flavor when cooking. • Incorporate fruits and vegetables into meals and keep them on hand for snacks.

• Learn to read food labels and remember that serving size does not always equal portion size.

• Ensure that healthy food options are available during sporting events and other activities.

Physical activity can also make a major difference. The American Heart Association recommends that children and adolescents participate in at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous aerobic activity every day to help reduce risk factors.

“It can be challenging, because kids spend a lot of time in front of screens – televisions, computers and phones,” says Dr. Jou. “But parents can help by setting limits for screen time, encouraging their children to exercise, and even taking up an activity that the family can enjoy together.”

To make an appointment with Dr. Jou or any of our pediatric cardiologists, please call 216.445.5015 or visit clevelandclinicchildrens.org/heart.