Early Childhood Diet Linked to Lower Blood Pressure in Children

Researchers have found a significant link between consistent consumption of dairy foods, fruits, and vegetables in early childhood and lower blood pressure levels in children over time. The study analyzed data from the Framingham Children's Study, which followed the dietary patterns of 95 families for 8 years, and found that children who naturally ate a diet similar to the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet developed by the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute had better overall blood pressure. This study suggests that promoting a healthy eating plan that includes dairy, fruits, and vegetables from a young age may have long-term health benefits.

Key Takeaways:

• The study found that children who consistently ate more servings of dairy foods, fruits, and vegetables had the lowest blood pressure levels over time.
• Those who ate the least amount of dairy foods, fruits, and vegetables had the highest blood pressure levels over time.
• The study analyzed data from the Framingham Children's Study, which followed the dietary patterns of 95 families for 8 years.
• The DASH diet, which is low in fat and rich in dairy foods, fruits, and vegetables, was found to be effective in lowering blood pressure in children.
• Parents who promote a family dietary pattern that is rich in fruits, vegetables, and dairy products may lower their own blood pressures and reduce the risk of future hypertension for their children.
• Lynn L. Moore, associate professor of medicine at Boston University School of Medicine, emphasized the importance of establishing a healthy eating plan in early childhood to reduce the risk of future hypertension.

Statistics:

• 15% of school-aged children are diagnosed as overweight and obese, increasing the risk of developing chronic diseases, including diabetes and high blood pressure.
• The study involved data from 95 families, which were followed for 8 years as part of the Framingham Children's Study.
• The DASH diet is a lowfat diet that is effective in lowering blood pressure in adults, and this study suggests it may also be effective in children.
• Children with lower blood pressures in adolescence are less likely to develop hypertension as young adults.
• Establishing a healthy eating plan in early childhood may have long-term health benefits, including lower blood pressure levels.

Sources:

• Epidemiology journal
• National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute
• Health & Medicine Week
• NewsRx.com