Research shows that during the past 10 years, average blood pressure levels have risen among American children, due perhaps in part to increasing obesity among youngsters. Because even in childhood, high blood pressure is a risk factor for heart disease later in life, heart health should start early. In 2004, the American Academy of Pediatrics issued a report recommending that doctors routinely check children as young as three for high blood pressure, a recommendation endorsed by the American Heart Association (AHA).1,2
Experts believe this rise in blood pressure in children may be related to a combination of lifestyle factors, including dietary choices and low levels of physical activity. Additionally, the AHA suggests monitoring the amount of salt consumed by children. The 2006 American Heart Association’s Diet and Lifestyle Recommendations include recommendations to watch children’s salt intake, beginning when the child is two years old.3 Other recommendations include balancing calorie intake and physical activity; consuming a diet rich in vegetables and fruit; choosing whole grain, high-fiber foods; consuming fish twice a week; limiting intake of saturated fat, trans fat, and cholesterol; and minimizing intake of beverages and foods with added sugar. Setting the stage for healthful eating and physical activity patterns early in life can be one of the greatest gifts parents give their kids. These behaviors will benefit not just the children, but the whole family.
Campbell's® condensed soups now have 21 more varieties with lower sodium sea salt added for lower sodium and great taste, making over 40 condensed soups in all with this sea salt.
For information on ways to help make changes in the salt intake of your family, see Salt Intake and Your Family . For information about healthful eating and children, visit the MyPyramid for kids.
1The Fourth Report on the Diagnosis, Evaluation, and Treatment of High Blood Pressure in Children and Adolescents. National High Blood Pressure Education Program Working Group on High Blood Pressure in Children and Adolescents. Pediatrics 2004;114;555-576.
2 Gidding SS et al. American Heart Association; American Academy of Pediatrics. Dietary recommendations for children and adolescents? A guide for practitioners: consensus statement from the American Heart Association. Circulation. 2005; 112:2061-2075.
3Lichtenstein AH, et al. Diet and Lifestyle Recommendation Revision 2006. A Scientific Statement from the American Heart Association Nutrition Committee. Circulation 2006;114 http://circ.aha.journals.org