What Causes High Cholesterol in Children

Cholesterol is a vital substance in the body, playing a crucial role in cell membrane formation, hormone production, and digestion. However, when cholesterol levels become too high, it can lead to serious health problems, even in children. High cholesterol in children is a growing concern, with more cases diagnosed each year. 

Genetics and Family History

One of the most significant factors contributing to high cholesterol in children is genetics. Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is an inherited condition that causes dangerously high levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, often referred to as "bad" cholesterol. Children with FH may inherit the condition from one or both parents, significantly increasing their risk of developing high cholesterol at an early age. If a child's parents or close relatives have experienced high cholesterol levels or related health issues, the child may be more predisposed to having elevated cholesterol levels. This genetic predisposition can manifest early, making it important for parents to be vigilant and seek regular cholesterol screenings for their children.

Unhealthy Diet

Diet is a significant contributor to high cholesterol levels in children. Consuming foods high in saturated fats, trans fats, and cholesterol can increase LDL cholesterol. Fast food, fried items, processed snacks, sugary desserts, and red meat are particularly harmful. These foods can cause cholesterol to build up in the arteries, leading to atherosclerosis, a condition where the arteries become narrow and hardened due to plaque buildup.

Additionally, children with a diet low in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains may not get enough fibre. Fiber helps reduce cholesterol levels by binding to cholesterol particles in the digestive system and preventing them from being absorbed into the bloodstream. 

Lack of Physical Activity

Regular exercise helps raise high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, often called "good" cholesterol, which helps remove LDL cholesterol from the bloodstream. However, many children today lead sedentary lifestyles, spending more time in front of screens than engaging in physical activities.

A lack of physical activity can lead to weight gain and obesity, which are significant risk factors for high cholesterol. Obesity can alter how the body processes cholesterol, often resulting in higher LDL cholesterol and lower HDL cholesterol levels. Encouraging children to engage in regular physical activity, such as playing sports, riding bikes, or simply walking, can help prevent high cholesterol.

Obesity

Childhood obesity is a significant public health issue and a leading cause of high cholesterol in children. Excess body fat can lead to an increase in LDL cholesterol and a decrease in HDL cholesterol, creating an imbalance that raises the risk of cardiovascular disease. Obese children are also more likely to develop insulin resistance, a precursor to type 2 diabetes, which is another risk factor for high cholesterol.

Other Health Conditions

Certain health conditions can contribute to high cholesterol levels in children. For instance, type 2 diabetes is associated with high LDL cholesterol, triglyceride, and low HDL cholesterol levels. Hypothyroidism, a condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone, can also lead to elevated cholesterol levels. Kidney and liver diseases can also affect how the body processes cholesterol, leading to higher levels in the bloodstream.

Children with these conditions may need to manage their cholesterol levels more carefully and might require medical intervention and lifestyle changes.

Medications

Some medications prescribed for other health issues can inadvertently raise cholesterol levels in children. For example, corticosteroids, often used to treat asthma and other inflammatory conditions, can increase LDL cholesterol levels. Anti-seizure medications and certain psychiatric drugs can have similar effects. Parents need to discuss potential side effects with their child's healthcare provider, especially if the child is already at risk for high cholesterol.