Effect of Quantitative and Qualitative Diet Prescription on Children Behavior after a Diagnosis of Heterozygous Familial Hypercholesterolemia

Abstract

Background: Diet and lifestyle healthy modifications represent the first therapeutic approach of early intervention for hypercholesterolemia. We aimed at evaluating the impact of a qualitative dietetic program rather than a quantitative one on metabolic parameters and anxiety level of children affected by heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia [hFH] and their mothers. Methods: In a sample of 42 hFH children (11.4±2.9 years old) we investigated which factors were associated with children perceived quality of life and in their mothers' anxiety levels after qualitative dietary changes rather than quantitative ones. Findings: The administered diets had similar metabolic effects. However, higher Child Behavior Checklist (Behavior Problems subscale) [CBCL] scores were significantly associated with the permanence in quantitative diet, as well as children's higher age, higher Children's Depression Inventory 2 (CDI2) and State-Trait Anxiety Inventory for Children (STAI-CH) score, and with mothers' anxiety at the baseline. Interpretation: In hFH children, a diet intervention to improve food choice seems to be associated with a more healthy children behavior rather than a quantitative diet. Funding: No specific funding has been provided for the research. Declaration of Interest: All the authors certify that they have NO affiliations with or involvement in any organization or entity with any financial or non-financial interest in the subject matter or materials discussed in the present manuscript. Ethical Approval: Parents signed an informed consent. The study was carried out in accordance with the declaration of Helsinki and approved by the local ethical board.