HYPERACTIVITY? GO NATURAL!

A recent study done at Southamptom University in England helped to confirm the idea that preservatives and artificial food coloring can increase hyperactivity.   In this trial, two groups of children, ages 3 years and 8-9 years old, were given a drink containing the preservative sodium benzoate and a mix of different artificial food dyes and additives.  Compared to placebo, they found the sodium benzoate plus the dyes Sunset yellow, carmoisine, tartrazine and Ponceau 4R increased hyperactivity in both age groups. 
 

The British Committee on Toxicity concluded that the results could be clinically relevant for individual children, particularly those who already show a tendency toward hyperactivity.  This would indeed be relevant, as it builds on an older study that found 73% (19 out of 26 children) children with ADHD reacted to many foods, dyes, and/or preservatives when challenged after an elimination diet.
 

Andrew Adesman, chief of developmental and behavioral pediatrics at Schneider Children’s Hospital in new Hyde Park, New York said, “It will be interesting to see how the [U.S.] Food and Drug Administration reacts to this study.  Hopefully, they will either encourage or mandate additional studies looking at food effects of additives on children and also adults.”
 

As a naturopathic doctor, these studies confirm our advocacy of whole foods, fresh vegetables and fruit, adequate protein, whole grains, and avoidance of chemicals, dyes, toxins, and sugar.  Not only is this helpful for hyperactivity, but can help to reduce mood swings, help the immune system and prevent future chronic disease.

Resources:
1. McCann D, Barrett A, Cooper A, et al. Food additives and hyperactive behaviour in 3-year-old and 8/9-year-old children in the community: a randomised, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial. Lancet, Nov 3, 2007;370(9598):1560-7.
2. Boris M, et al.  Foods and additives are common causes of the attention deficit hyperactive disorder in children.
 Ann Allergy, 01 May, 1994; 72(5): 462-8.