Kids & Heart Health: Here Are 4 Ways to Instill Heart-Healthy Habits in Your Children by Joyce Knestrick, CRNP, FAANP


Kids & Heart Health: Here Are 4 Ways to Instill Heart-Healthy Habits in Your Children

Most people think a heart-healthy lifestyle is something only adults need to worry about, but good heart health starts when we’re young. Parents can give their kids a head start with these simple strategies:

  • Feed them a diet low in fat and cholesterol. Seven percent of kids between the ages of 10 and 15 already have hardening arteries from too much cholesterol, and that rate doubles at age 15.
  • Make exercise part of your daily routine. Healthy kids as young as age 9 who are inactive show an increased risk of future heart problems.
  • Model good behavior. Drinking and smoking are hard on the heart, so set a good example for your kids.
  • Talk about the importance of heart health. One in six kids is obese, and many don’t make the correlation between unhealthy habits now and real health problems later. Talk about WHY good heart health is important.

It’s never too early to focus on heart-healthy habits! We only have one heart, so teach your kids to take care of it.

The content on 30Seconds.com is for informational and entertainment purposes only, and should not be considered medical advice. The information on this site should not be used to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease, and is not a substitute for professional care. Always consult your personal healthcare provider. The opinions or views expressed on 30Seconds.com do not necessarily represent those of 30Seconds or any of its employees, corporate partners or affiliates.

Take 30 seconds and join the 30Seconds community, and follow us on Facebook to get inspiration in your newsfeed daily. Inspire and be inspired.

Related Products on Amazon We Think You May Like:

30Second Mobile, Inc. is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.

My Husband Survived a Widowmaker Heart Attack: 12 Things About Heart Attacks You Need to Know

Love Your Heart: 5 Heart-Happy & Healthy Nutrients You Need Daily!

Healthy Hearts: 6 Easy Ways Give the Gift of Heart Health This Valentine’s Day

Elisa Schmitz
Parents are their kids' first and best role models. Great tip, Joyce Knestrick, CRNP, FAANP !

join discussion

Please login to comment.

recommended tips

Skip the Potato Chips: How to Prep So You Grab Healthier Snacks!

The Health Benefits of Cinnamon: Why You Need to Sprinkle This Spice on Everything

Relax About Flax: Simple Ways to Add Flax Seeds to Your Diet!

A Toast to Tea Time: Possible Health Benefits of Drinking Green Tea!