Experts Warn: Rising Triglyceride Levels in Children Aged 5 to 9 in India

Poor lifestyle choices and unhealthy eating habits are increasingly affecting children’s health in India. According to the 2025 Children Report of the National Nutrition Survey, around 16% of adolescents aged 10 to 19 in India have elevated triglyceride levels. Triglycerides are a type of fat found in the blood, and when they rise beyond healthy limits, they can pose serious risks to the heart and arteries.

While elevated triglycerides are concerning at any age, the problem is most prevalent among younger children aged 5 to 9. The survey revealed alarming regional variations:

• West Bengal: 67% of children

• Sikkim: 64.6%

• Assam: 57%

• Nagaland: 55.5%

• Manipur: 54.7%

• Kerala: 16.6% (lowest prevalence)

Why Triglycerides Are Concerning in Children

Dr. Ajit Jain, Associate Professor in the Department of Cardiology at Rajiv Gandhi Hospital, Delhi, explains that high triglycerides in children under 10 are particularly alarming because they can lead to plaque buildup in arteries, narrowing them and increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke later in life.

If this condition is not detected and managed early through dietary and lifestyle changes, it can result in serious long-term health complications.

Triglycerides in Adolescents (10–19 Years)

In adolescents aged 10 to 19, the prevalence of high triglycerides is lower. Only 16% of adolescents in this age group had elevated triglycerides, and less than 4% had high LDL cholesterol.

• West Bengal: 42.5% of adolescents had high triglycerides

• Sikkim: 39.4%

• Manipur: 38%

• Maharashtra: 6.4% (lowest prevalence)

Goa and Kerala reported the highest levels of LDL cholesterol among adolescents, at 15.3% and 14.9%, respectively.

Reasons for Rising Triglycerides in Children

Experts identify several key factors contributing to this trend:

• Poor eating habits and excessive consumption of fried foods

• High intake of sweetened drinks and packaged foods

• Low physical activity and reduced outdoor play

• Addiction to mobile phones and gaming

How to Protect Children

Dr. Jain emphasizes the importance of instilling healthy habits from an early age:

• Include fresh fruits, vegetables, and nuts in their daily diet

• Encourage regular physical activity and outdoor play

• Limit consumption of fried, sugary, and processed foods

• Reduce screen time and mobile phone addiction

The sooner these changes are implemented, the better the chances children have to lead healthy lives and reduce the risk of serious diseases as they grow older.

By raising awareness about triglyceride levels and promoting healthier lifestyles, parents and caregivers can play a crucial role in safeguarding children’s long-term health.