People used to begin checking their cholesterol levels from about age 40 on up, but especially from age 50 or 60 up. But in today’s fast food mentality, children from age 8 and up are seeing their cholesterol levels soar sky-high, leading to all sorts of adult-related problems – including diabetes, heart problems, high blood pressure and more. In fact, it’s not uncommon at all, for our schools to offer food that includes 30 percent in the form of fat. Coincidentally, this is the same amount that we find in most fast food menus. This type of diet might actually be the reason why we need to start monitoring cholesterol as early as 7 and 8 years of age.
Our children are in real danger from the marketing machine of modern television. Ask your doctor what is the right age for your child, and then continue to monitor those levels as they age. As an adult, you definitely should monitor your cholesterol levels and keep your LDL well under 200 and your HDL as high as you can get it. Again, discuss with your doctor to determine the level that is right for you and your family.