High blood pressure is a condition that used to be associated with adults and older people. However, medical statistics collected from hospitals and healthcare institutions show that more and more children are suffering from the condition.

Here are four tips to prevent your children from having high blood pressure.

Keep track of your children’s blood pressure

Make sure you check their blood pressure often. If it is not convenient to have your children checked at a clinic, you can consider buying a blood pressure checking device.

Many digital devices are now available at an affordable price and are easy to use. Keep a journal of your children’s blood pressure readings to track how they are doing. Pay attention to any unusual changes to take prompt action.

Create a healthy diet for your children

Try to reduce fat and sugar in your children’s meals. Add more fruit, vegetables and whole-grains. If your children have had relatively high blood pressure lately, you should limit their salt intake.

If you cannot decide how to plan the meal, you can contact a dietitian for a customized eating plan that fits everyone in your family. Fortunately, your whole family can benefit from a healthy diet too.

(Read also: Six things to keep in mind when giving juice to children)

Control your children’s weight

Obesity is one of the leading risk factors for high blood pressure. If your children are overweight, you should try to help them take off a few kgs.

With a balanced diet and regular exercise, your children will be able to maintain a healthy weight. Schedule a visit with your doctor to set goals for losing weight.

Avoid tobacco

Tobacco consumption can put children’s health at risk. In addition to raising their blood pressure, it can also affect the health of their heart and blood vessels.

One of the most important thing in protecting your children is keeping them completely free from tobacco. Even second-hand smoke is dangerous. If you smoke, try to quit smoking for the sake of your children’s health. If someone else in the family smokes, ask them to at least go outside whenever they want to indulge.

Chronic high blood pressure, if left untreated, can be life-threatening. Therefore, it is important to monitor your children’s blood pressure closely. An early diagnosis can help your children get the best treatment. (kes)