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Why Do Kids Get Hyper Over Candy?

The U.S. National Library of Medicine defines hyperactivity as the exhibition of excessive muscle activity. In children, this excessive activity may be displayed as fidgeting, impulsiveness, excessive talking and lack of concentration. Hyperactivity is considered a problem when it interferes with a child's functioning in school or with friends and family. Several medical conditions, such as attention deficit disorder and hyperthyroidism, may contribute to hyperactivity. A common myth among parents, however, is that sugar causes long-term hyperactivity in children.

  1. Sugar and Hyperactivity

    • Children may become hyper when eating refined sugar from candy. This occurs because the body quickly break downs refined sugar (or carbohydrates). When sugar rapidly enters the body, the body releases adrenaline (also known as epinephrine), the hormone known for the fight or flight response. The body's response to adrenaline contributes to children exhibiting more activity. The hyperactivity associated with sugar usage is short-lived. The adrenaline surge may drop as quickly as it arose, causing children to become sluggish or underactive.

    Artificial Ingredients

    • The culprit behind hyperactivity might be the artificial colors that are present in many candies, according to the Center for Science in the Public Interest. While the U.S. Food and Drug Administration hasn't found a link between artificial food ingredients and hyperactivity, such organizations as the Center for Science in the Public Interest say several additives contribute to hyperactivity, especially in children who are sensitive or allergic to those artificial ingredients. In the report "Food Dyes: A Rainbow of Risks," CSPI states that dyes, such as Red 40, Yellow 5 and Yellow 6, may trigger hyperactivity as well as other behavioral problems.

    Other Conditions

    • Some children who exhibit more hyperactivity than peers the same age for longer than six months may have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD. Children who are hyperactive with ADHD may have trouble sitting still during typical quiet activities, such as movies and dinners, and have difficulty keeping quiet for long periods, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. These children may have the impulse to touch or play with everything they see.

    Considerations

    • The U.S. National Library of Medicine suggests that parents contact their health care provider if a child starts to have difficulties with her schoolwork and social life because of activity levels. A health care provider should also look at children who become aggressive and overly impulsive. Parents who think that candy or other foods contribute to hyperactivity may seek a physician's advice on an elimination diet, which may help pinpoint potential food sensitivities.

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