7 Ways to Reduce the Risk of High Blood Pressure in Children – 2024-07-18 04:32:57

High blood pressure in children (Freepik)

HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE or hypertension is not only a health problem for adults, but can also affect children.

Reducing the risk of high blood pressure early on is essential to maintaining a child’s long-term health.

Here are some ways to reduce the risk of high blood pressure in children:

Teaching children to eat healthy foods from an early age is essential. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy products can help keep blood pressure normal.

Limit your intake of salt and foods high in fat and sugar. Examples of healthy foods that are good for children include carrots, broccoli, apples, bananas, and oatmeal.

2. Physical Activity

Children should get at least 60 minutes of physical activity every day. This can include playing in the park, biking, swimming, or playing organized sports such as soccer or basketball. Physical activity helps maintain a healthy weight and improves heart health.

Also read: Parenting Patterns Can Prevent Children from Experiencing Metabolic Syndrome

3. Weight Control

Being overweight or obese is a major risk factor for high blood pressure in children. Ensuring your child has a balanced diet and regular exercise can help maintain a healthy weight.

Reducing screen time such as watching TV or playing video games can also help control weight.

4. Limit Sugar and Salt Consumption

Excessive sugar consumption can lead to weight gain which contributes to hypertension. Similarly, excessive salt consumption can lead to fluid retention which increases blood pressure.

Also read: Breakfast can’t just be full

Teaching children to choose healthy snacks and avoid processed foods that are high in salt and sugar is very important.

5. Monitor Blood Pressure

Regularly monitoring your child’s blood pressure, especially if they have risk factors such as obesity or a family history of high blood pressure, can help detect problems early.

Consult your pediatrician regarding the appropriate blood pressure check schedule.

Also read: Not Only Quality, Children’s Equipment Products Must Be Environmentally Friendly

6. Avoid Exposure to Cigarettes

Exposure to cigarette smoke, either from direct smoking or passive smoking, can increase the risk of high blood pressure in children.

Make sure the home environment is smoke-free and teach children regarding the dangers of smoking.

7. Reduce Stress

Stress can also contribute to high blood pressure. Helping children develop stress management skills such as talking regarding their feelings, getting enough rest, and engaging in enjoyable activities can help reduce stress.

Teaching children healthy habits from an early age is an investment in their future health. By following the steps above, the risk of high blood pressure in children can be minimized.

Source:

• _{American Heart Association (AHA)}
• _{Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)}
• _{Mayo Clinic}