Although the focus of this statement by the Committee on Nutrition is on cholesterol levels in children, other risk factors for atherosclerosis originate in childhood and should be addressed with equal attention. Specifically, smoking should be discouraged, hypertension should be identified and treated, obesity should be avoided and reduced, regular exercise should be encouraged, and diabetes mellitus should be identified and treated.

This statement, for the most part, is in concert with statements of other experts and expert panels, including the National Cholesterol Education Program, the American Heart Association's Council on Cardiovascular Disease in the Young and Committee on Nutrition, the US Department of Agriculture and the US Department of Health and Human Services Dietary Guidelines for Americans, the US Surgeon General, the National Research Council, and the National Cancer Institute.

Consumption of enough fruits and vegetables has become a great concern in the US during recent years. The rich vitamins and minerals found in fresh fruits and vegetables make them very special as the cornerstone of a healthy lifestyle. Unfortunately, only 20% of all Americans eat five or more servings of fruits and vegetables a day (not including french fries and potato chips), the minimum amount recommended by nutritionists. Scientists, researchers and the media give reports supporting the fact that fruits and vegetables are essential for good health. Eating 5-9 fruits and vegetables can help prevent serious diseases such as cancer and heart disease. Have you ever considered looking at the 5 a Day for Better Health Program? It recommends making your meal time colorful and healthy. Think about the different colors of fruits and vegetables that are available to add to your meal each time you eat and it will become a habit. And guess what? A habit is h ard to change.

A combination of fruits and vegetables can keep your heart healthy, strengthen your immune system, give you good memory, good vision health, give you strong bones and teeth, give you a healthy weight, lower your risk of high blood pressure, stroke and as previously mentioned lower your risk of cancer.