The Correlation Between Food and Hyperactivity

An increasing number of researchers state specific foods and food colorings can be at fault for the increasing amount of ADHD symptoms. Here is a general evaluation involving the basic research and studies concerning food preservatives and ADHD.



There are eight associated risk elements usually associated with Attention Deficit Disorder and ADHD. Six of the eight are directly pertaining to diet;

Food and additive hypersensitivity

Mineral imbalances

Low-protein/high-carbohydrate eating habits

Essential fatty acid insufficiencies

Amino acid insufficiencies

B-vitamin insufficiencies

Heavy metal toxicity

Thyroid imbalance



Dr. Feingold first introduced the concept of food additives triggering behavioral difficulties in the 1970s. He based the concept on the practical experience of 1,200 people whose behavior disorders were connected to food preservatives. Feingold believed that forty to fifty percent of hyperactive youngsters react to a sensitivity to artificial food colors, flavors, and preservatives



A variety of reviews followed. Quite a few backed Feingold's theory. Other research did not. This left the medical-related community mainly separated. A study in 2007 from the UK confirmed Feingold's earlier conclusions. Scientists at the University of Southampton examined nearly 300 kids over a six-week period by supplying the children with beverages containing artificial coloring. The beverages were equivalent to those available at retail outlets. Based on teacher and parent assessments, researchers found that the children who drank the mixtures with additives were significantly more hyper and had reduced attention spans.



Artificial coloring and additives are only one area of emphasis when it comes to food and its interconnection to ADHD problems. Various other studies show that adding certain foods and nutrients to the daily diet can improve the symptoms connected with Attention Deficit and hyperactivity. One study (George Washington University School of Medicine) found that ADHD children that consumed high protein meals did just as well, and sometimes better, in the classroom than children without hyperactivity issues. An Oxford University study looked at essential fatty acid supplementation and ADHD. The hyperactivity in children receiving fatty acid supplements considerably improved whereas the youngsters in the placebo group did not receive the same improvements.



Attention Deficit Disorder and hyperactivity was first connected to low essential fatty acid almost 30 years ago. Further studies examining essential fatty acid blood levels in children with behavioral problems confirmed the nutrition link. Later scientists once again noted the EFA lack tie to ADD and ADHD. A 1995 study again examined the EFA connection by comparing levels in ADHD boys against a control group of boys without ADHD. Researchers discovered considerably lower levels of Omega-3 fatty acids in the ADD and ADHD group.



A study in 1994 from Purdue University found that boys with low blood levels of Omega-3 fatty acid DHA have a greater frequency of hyperactivity and Attention Deficit Disorder. A study in 1996 found that ADHD children are often deficient in zinc. The next year a study reported that of the the ADD and ADHD children analyzed, 95% were magnesium deficient.


In the latest analysis relating to the link between diet and ADD and ADHD, researchers examined the advantage of taking certain foods out of the diet. Researchers of last year's study found that a strict elimination diet produced a 50 to 70 percent decrease in ADHD symptoms just after nine weeks on the diet program.



Giving meals to give a boost to brain power while taking out junk foods from the diet is the kindest and most balanced method to remedy ADD and ADHD. By adjusting your child - by either removing problem foods and/or adding healthful foods - you allow the cornerstone for solid nutrition and possibly can refrain from using ADHD prescription medicine.

Discover how certain foods can produce better focus and better grades. For additional information and facts regarding the Attention Food Diet and to receive your free 109 Smoothies recipe ebook, visit http://www.naturalADHDcure.com.