A new study which examined the arteries of 70 children between the ages of 10 and 18, found that over half of the children in the study had cardiovascular systems that were more like those of middle aged adults!

Using ultrasound technology to detect fatty deposits, researchers found that the majority of the kids in the research project had arteries with significant levels of plaque (fatty deposits) along the inner walls of the arteries that supply blood to the brain.  This increased level of plaque in the arteries puts children at greater risk for medical concerns such as heart attack, stroke and death, which in previous generations were basically non-existent in children and teens.  The children in the study who were most at risk and who exhibited the most damage to their arteries were obese and had abnormally high levels of cholesterol (too much bad, or LDL, cholesterol, or not enough good, or HDL, cholesterol).  Some also had extremely high triglyceride levels.

Health risks like these have increased with poorer eating habits and an increase in sedentary lifestyles among children.  Many children spend hours in front of the television watching tv or playing video games, and not enough time engaging in exercise and physical activity.  Families are also relying on fast food diets too often, and allowing children to engage in mindless, unhealthy snacking.  All of these factors can contribute to increased weight and unhealthy lifestyles for children.

So how can we keep our kids healthy and prevent this kind of damage?  Researchers suggest changing to a healthier diet and increasing activity levels.  So let’s get those kids off the couch and back outside where they used to be!  And moms and dads, try adding more fresh fruits and veggies to your families’ diets, and start relying less on McDonald’s for your kids’ dinners!

For more information on this study, click here.

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