4 out of 5 American teens do not have good heart health

A new report published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on August 14 showed that four out of five American teens do not have good heart health. The survey examined all factors that can affect cardiovascular health, from eating habits to sleep and exercise, and areas where schools can make important differences.

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States, and many of the risk factors associated with it appear in childhood and adolescence, due to harmful health behaviors, such as smoking experience, excessive intake of foods rich in fats and carbohydrates, and lack of physical activity. Which leads to increased rates of obesity, the appearance of prediabetes, high levels of cholesterol in the blood, and an increased possibility of heart disease.

The researchers used data from the Centers for Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS) in 2025, to evaluate cardiovascular health through five criteria (physical activity, diet, sleep quality, body mass index and nicotine exposure), according to the American Heart Association. The survey included complete data for 5,192 students, and overall, the average heart health score was only about 65.

Females scored lower on overall heart health, as well as sleep quality and physical activity, compared to males. About 80 percent of high school students in the United States received an average or low overall rating for cardiovascular health.

These findings highlight the importance of promoting healthy behaviors early in life. Researchers identified opportunities to develop school and community programs focused on improving diet and increasing physical activity.

On the other hand, studies indicate that spices such as cinnamon, ginger, turmeric, and fenugreek may contribute to controlling blood sugar levels, with the need to be careful of drug interactions and side effects when taking supplements in high doses.

Regarding salt, hepatologist Brian Lee points out that a diet rich in sodium may contribute to liver inflammation and scarring, especially in cirrhosis patients who suffer from fluid retention. It is recommended to reduce the consumption of processed foods and rely on home cooking with fresh ingredients.