by Salomey Aka
Food dyes and sugar are a majority of the reasons for making children with ADHD more hyperactive, but is this true? Red dye or Red 40, is most likely found in candy, drinks, cereals, and other processed foods. There is also no reliable evidence that approves the idea that children with ADHD are more attracted to the color red. Children with ⁸ or sounds, as a result, bright colors like the color red, could distract them easily.
Based on current research, children with ADHD have noticeable differences in responding to obvious visual distractions, but it’s not certain that the color red itself causes ADHD symptoms. The FDA currently lists the food colorings, Red 3 and Red 40 as certified. Other artificial colors that are commonly used are Yellow 5, Yellow 6, Blue 1, Blue 2, and Green 3. The FDA even states that the majority of children that consume approved food colors do not experience behavioral issues, but some children have experienced sensitivity.
Some studies have found that mixing of artificial colors can increase hyperactive behavior in certain children, but scientists have not confirmed that food dyes certainly cause ADHD. A systematic review concluded that there isn’t enough evidence that recommends the removal of artificial colors as a form of treatment for children with ADHD, even though certain children can benefit from avoiding those foods. There are no nutritional benefits from food dyes individually, but their purpose is to make food look more appealing. Sugar is another issue as well. Research hasn’t fully supported the idea that eating sugar causes ADHD, even though diets containing sugary drinks and processed foods are not recommended for children’s health.
Parents can overtime replace sugary foods with fruit, unsweetened items, water, and other healthier food choices. To accommodate a child who enjoys brightly colored foods, parents can use bright colored fruits and vegetables.
Parents can definitely be successful in reducing their child’s intake of artificial dyes and sugar, but it’s essential to start off small and slow to avoid unnecessary conflict of just having to start over. Parents should also read ingredient labels, track certain foods that affect the child’s behavior, and look into contacting a dietitian or pediatrician for picky eaters.