Youth Need More Exercise

Monday, July 14, 2008

Nancy L. Brown, PhD

I am as serious as a heart attack! Given all the press about the growing obesity rates, particularly in children, at one time or another all of us have probably thought our families needed a healthier diet and more exercise, and we were right.

Last week the American Academy of Pediatrics recommended that children from families with a history of heart disease and high cholesterol be screened for high cholesterol every 3-5 years after the age of two, and that cholesterol-reducing drugs (called statins) be considered for children as young as eight!

Everyone knows that obesity is related to higher risks for Type 2 Diabetes, heart disease, hypertension, and stroke, but for some reason, we are ignoring these risks and our children may pay a very steep price.

The best way to prevent all of these health outcomes is to eat well and get at least an hour of exercise each day, so step away from the computer and get active!

Photo credit: 3rgella

Labels: Fitness, Healthline, Teen Health

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