The Feingold Diet was developed Dr. Ben Feingold in the 1960s, based on the hypothesis that allergic sensitivities to certain foods may trigger or even cause ADHD symptoms such as hyperactivity, learning difficulties and sleep problems. Dr. Feingold noted that behavioral issues started to increase as more Americans began eating foods containing artificial additives. The goal of the diet is to reduce behavior problems by eliminating those trigger foods.
Two Stages
In Stage One of the Feingold Program, foods containing artificial additives and sweeteners are removed from the diet. Salicylates found naturally in many fruits and vegetables as well as in some medications and perfumes are eliminated, because salicylates have a chemical similarity to synthetic yellow dye. Salicylate list pinpoints certain foods that have to be avoided while on the diet, including almonds, apples, apricots, berries, cherries, coffee, cucumbers, grapes, peaches, peppers, pickles, plums, prunes, raisins, tangerines, tea and tomatoes. In Stage Two some of the foods from the list are slowly reintroduced to the diet while watching to see if any of the old symptoms reappear.
Principles
The Feingold Program is an elimination diet, similar to the diet proposed for allergy testing. Artificial colors, flavors, preservatives and sweeteners and some salicylate-containing foods are eliminated. Beside dietary recommendations, the Feingold Program also eliminates some nonfood products such as toothpaste, shampoo, mouthwash, cough syrups, other medicines and some chewing gums.
Research
Over many years, more and more studies have researched the benefits of the Feingold Diet. As of 2010, a list of 80 relevant research studies is available at the Feingold Association website. Based on these studies, however, the efficacy of this diet remains in doubt.
In her 1996 book, "Why Can't My Child Behave?," author and Feingold Association Director Jane Hersey describes a statistical analysis in which 49 percent of the participants reported "great improvement" from the diet, 37 percent reported "much improvement" and only 1 percent reported no improvement. According to The Feingold Association, the success rate of this diet is around 80 percent.
Pros and Cons
The pros: there are several benefits in following the Feingold Diet. The program may help improve ADHD symptoms such as hyperactivity, irritability, impulsivity and memory, concentration and sleep problems. The diet also promotes a healthy lifestyle, free of harmful additives. Unlike other diets, the Feingold Program allows, in moderation, sugar and snack foods.
The cons: the Feingold Diet involves many restrictions, and therefore is not an easy diet to follow. Cooking specifically designed meals and shopping for certain brands is also time consuming and requires rigorous discipline.
Feingold Member Packet
The Program can be purchased from The Feingold Association, an association that analyzes brands and products which are free from additives. A Feingold member receives a package that includes a Food list, a guidance handbook and a recipe book. The Association provides extensive online and phone support at 800-321-3287. The food list contains over 1000 acceptable brand name foods and nonfood products and is updated regularly according to new foods available on the market.
References
- "The Feingold Program - A Dietary Connection to Better Behaviour, Learning and Health"; Ben F. Feingold, MD; 2008
- The Feingold Association; FAQ; What is the success rate for this Program?
- "Why Can't My Child Behave?"; Jane Hersey; 1996
- "Why Your Child Is Hyperactive"; Ben F. Feingold, MD; 1985
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