World Heart Day 2023: Promoting Exercise and Heart Health in Kids
As we celebrate World Heart Day, it's important to focus on the relationship between exercise and heart disease in children. Many parents wonder if their child with heart disease should exercise, and if so, how much and how intensely. To shed light on these questions, four pediatric cardiologists from Stanford Children's Health recently participated in an Ask Me Anything event to provide guidance and recommendations for parents.
Exercise is not only safe but beneficial for children and young adults with heart disease. While there are certain forms of heart disease where specific types of exercise may not be recommended, the majority of cases benefit from some form of physical activity. It's always crucial to consult with your child's cardiologist before starting a new exercise program to ensure safety and appropriateness.
The medical community now widely accepts and encourages exercise for kids with heart disease, recognizing the numerous advantages of regular physical activity. Children with heart issues can engage in a variety of exercises, including moderate activities like brisk walking and dancing, as well as vigorous exercises like running and tennis. Finding an exercise that your child enjoys is key to promoting long-term physical health and well-being.
Regular exercise not only strengthens the heart muscle but also reduces the risk of developing heart disease later in life. Additionally, physical activity promotes mental health, confidence, agility, and social interactions with peers. Stanford Children's Health offers a specialized program, Young Hearts in Motion, to help children with congenital heart disease lead more active lives through personalized fitness plans and guidance.
In conclusion, promoting exercise and heart health in children is essential for overall well-being and longevity. By encouraging regular physical activity and working closely with healthcare professionals, parents can help their children with heart disease live active and fulfilling lives. Happy World Heart Day!