Introduced in the 1970 book, "Why Your Child is Hyperactive," the idea of reducing the symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, or ADHD, became a serious topic of discussion among pediatricians and behavioral therapists. The brainchild of Dr. Benjamin Feingold, the diet that bears his name focuses on eliminating certain food additives that may cause an allergic reaction and trigger ADHD symptoms, according to the "Gale Encyclopedia of Diets: A Guide to Health and Nutrition." Talk to your doctor before using the Feingold diet to treat ADHD.
ADHD
Marked by symptoms that include hyperactive behavior, inability to concentrate, impulsive or risky behavior, compulsive behavior and sleep disorders, ADHD can interfere with a child's ability to complete schoolwork or form successful relationships. Although Feingold, a pediatrician and allergist, developed his elimination diet for children, today's Feingold Association of the United States advocates the diet for adults with ADHD, as well as kids.
Theory
Dr. Feingold researched and promoted his theory that allergens in a child's diet could affect his ability to behave and concentrate, according to Every Diet. Dr. Feingold thought that certain food additives were often responsible for much of hyperactive behavior and by removing them from the diet; the child's symptoms would disappear.
Process
On Feingold's elimination diet, parents were to eliminate a list of all potential food allergens and if the child's symptoms disappeared, the banned foods were allowed back into the diet at the rate of one per week. Parents were to observe and record any changes in behavior. If the reintroduced food did not trigger new ADHD symptoms, it remained on the child's "safe" food list.
What to Eliminate
The first step in the Feingold elimination diet requires eating only foods that do not contain certain food additives, including corn syrup, corn sugar, high-fructose corn syrup, monosodium glutamate, hydrolyzed vegetable protein, calcium propionate and sodium nitrate, according to Every Diet. The Feingold Association provides parents with a list of allowable foods.
Concerns
The Feingold diet may be beneficial, but parents of children with ADHD, and adults with ADHD, should not substitute the diet for a medical treatment program unless directed to do so by their doctors. Although the Feingold diet allows many foods, care must be taken to eliminate all the potential triggers in order for the diet to work. According to the "Gale Encyclopedia," this can be a time consuming task, and children must learn not to trade lunches at school or eat snacks or treats without approval.
References
- Every Diet: Feingold Diet
- Feingold Association: FAQs
- "The Gale Encyclopedia of Diets: A Guide to Health and Nutrition"; Jacqueline L. Longe, 2008
Member Comments