At Palo Alto Medical Foundation, we help newborns, children and teens who have acquired and genetic lipid disorders, which causes high levels of cholesterol or triglycerides in the blood. Patients and their families meet with an expert in pediatric lipid management, for an evaluation and diagnosis. During the visit, the doctor will perform a comprehensive review of lab values, taking into account genetic history and environmental factors, as well as diet and exercise habits.
Based on this detailed evaluation, the doctor will provide individualized recommendations to help your family improve your child’s lipid levels and overall health. The focus is on realistic, sustainable dietary and lifestyle modifications, with medications prescribed only if needed. If the lipid problems stem from excess weight, this may be addressed as well.
In the process of achieving a healthier lipid profile, families also learn how to eat healthfully for sustained energy throughout the day. You will also learn how to navigate the current food culture to make more nutritious choices. Over the long term, these practices can help prevent premature atherosclerosis (build-up of fatty plaque on the artery walls) and cardiovascular disease.