Protecting your child's heart
Less than a third of American kids ages 2 to 19 have a healthy cardiovascular system! And that means that around two out of every three youngsters are headed toward high blood pressure, premature and fast-worsening Type 2 diabetes, and a roster of other health challenges that reduce their quality of life and shorten their lifespan.
You know that a diet loaded with highly processed and fried foods and a lack of physical activity can harm kids' hearts. But did you know that a study in the Journal of the American Heart Association tracked the habits and health of 1,000 Danish kids and found that excess leisure screen time creates heart health risks?
Turns out that there is a meaningful association between watching TV, movies, gaming or using phones, tablets or computers for leisure activities and increased insulin resistance, elevated lousy cholesterol, and high blood pressure. And spending three or more hours a day greatly amplifies the potential risks.
An even stronger association between screen time and poor cardiovascular health was found when kids don't get enough sleep. The researchers say about 12% of the association between screen time and cardiometabolic risk was mediated through shorter sleep duration. That makes it important that your kids get enough digital-free sleep. Toddlers need 11-13 hours of sleep daily; preschoolers, 10-13 hours; kids ages 6-13 need nine to 12 hours and older teens need eight to 10. And for more ways to assure your kids enjoy a healthy heart and long life, read "YOU: The Owner's Manual for Teens" and tune into substack.com/@michaelfroizenmd.
Health pioneer Michael Roizen, M.D., is chief wellness officer emeritus at the Cleveland Clinic and author of four No. 1 New York Times bestsellers. Check out his latest, "The Great Age Reboot: Cracking the Longevity Code for a Younger Tomorrow," and find out more at www.longevityplaybook.com. Email your health and wellness questions to Dr. Mike at questions@longevityplaybook.com.
(c)2023 Michael Roizen, M.D.
Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.
(c) 2025 Michael Roizen, M.D. Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.
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