The Feingold Diet aims to reduce the incidence of food allergies, food sensitivities and especially behavioral problems in children diagnosed with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder and attention deficit disorder. The diet, developed by Benjamin Feingold, M.D., focuses on selecting foods free of dyes, artificial colors, artificial sweeteners and salicylate, which is found in some fruits as well as aspirin. It is a strict diet, but it is possible to a create a balanced menu using only foods allowed on the Feingold Diet.
Beans
All types of beans are allowed on the Feingold Diet and they are an excellent base for nutritious meals. Beans are high in protein and fiber and have a range of vitamins and minerals. According to World's Healthiest Foods website black beans, for example, are packed with antioxidents and contain significant levels of trace minerals such as molybdenum.
Potatoes
Potatoes are a nutritious staple food---and a favorite with kids. Try homemade mashed potatoes with olive oil, or make your own chunky French fries so children on a strict diet won't feel entirely left out of eating fun finger food. You can also use potato flour as a substitute for wheat flour in some recipes. For variety, try different types of potatoes, such as Yukon Gold, Maris Piper or new potatoes, in recipes.
Fruits
Many fruits are banned from the Feingold Diet because they contain salicylates; however, according to an article posted on Mothering, a website devoted to parenting and family because they are sweet and easy to include in school lunches or as snacks.
Vegetables
Allowed vegetables, according to the Feingold Diet website, are mostly cruciferous---they include broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, kale, and lettuce. However, the diet also allows for popular vegetables such as carrots, peas, onions, mushrooms and corn, which gives anyone following the diet a satisfying range of options. Adding squash and sweet potatoes, both permitted, to the diet, means it is easy to make hearty vegetable soups, stews or casseroles, or enjoy grilled or roasted vegetables.
References
- Google Books; The ADHD/ADD Natural Remedy Report: Treating ADHD/ADD with Nutrition
- "Mothering"; ADHD & Diet: How Food Affects Mood, Michael Jacobson, July/August 2000
- "Mothering"; ADHD and Diet
- Feingold Association of the United States: Many learning and behavior problems begin in your grocery cart
- World's Healthiest Foods: Black Beans
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