|  | Family Health | Pediatrics

Food for Hyperactive Kids

The cause of hyperactivity and attention deficit disorders remains a medical mystery. Some believe that dietary components may increase hyperactivity in certain children. Therefore, diet modifications are becoming a vital component in the treatment for these disorders. The theory involves creating a calming, even state in the body by limiting food additives, avoiding potential allergens and promoting healthy, balanced diets.

  1. Allergens

    • According to Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI) "Several studies indicate that certain foods---including wheat, eggs, milk, chocolate, corn and soybeans---adversely affect some children's behavior." To find out if your child's hyperactivity is related to a food allergy or intolerance you can either eliminate each of these foods individually or eliminate all the above foods and then re-introduce these foods one at a time. Keep a diary and if behavior changes occur in response to a certain food, eliminate that food from the diet and continue testing the other foods. Once you have identified the foods that negatively affect your child's behavior, you can plan a diet that avoids these trigger foods.

    Food Dyes

    • In 2004, a study conducted by the University of Southampton found that there may be a connection between certain dyes, sodium benzoate and hyperactivity. These food dyes are found in products such as Kool-Aid and many colorful cereals and candies. Sodium benzoate is commonly found in citric juices and carbonated beverages. Try eliminating these substances from the diet for two or three weeks to see if there is an improvement.

    Feingold diet

    • As early as 1975, Dr. Ben Feingold, an allergy specialist, published articles citing the connection between hyperkinesia (earlier name for hyperactivity disorders such as ADHD) and artificial colorings and flavorings. Later he went on to conclude that several diet factors increased hyperactivity and behavioral issues including salicylates. Salicylates are related to aspirin and are found in many plant-based foods, including almonds, apples, cucumbers and mint. Today, followers of the "Feingold diet" restrict all artificial coloring and flavoring, aspartame (Nutrasweet), and the preservatives BHA, BHT and TBHQ.

    Healthy Options

    • Whether or not diet directly affects hyperactivity, following a healthy diet can only benefit children. In June 2009, the Harvard Medical Center's Mental Health Letter recommended "a diet that emphasizes fruits and vegetables, whole grains, healthful unsaturated fats, and good sources of protein," stating that following such a diet would also help avoid exposure to food additives and would increase the intake of potentially beneficial omega-3 fatty acids and various micro-nutrients such as zinc, iron, magnesium and vitamin B6.

    Cautions

    • Consult your child's physician or a licensed dietitian prior to eliminating whole groups of foods, such as all dairy products, to make sure your child still receives all the necessary nutrients.

Pediatrics - Related Articles