Side Effects Of The Feingold Diet

The Feingold Diet is a dietary program designed to test which particular food additives may trigger or worsen behavioral complaints in patients suffering from attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. The purpose of this diet is to eliminate foods with artificial dyes, flavors, preservatives and sweeteners and then monitor the results the diet has on an individual's behavioral symptoms. Although the diet is considered to be safe and well-tolerated, some mild side effects may occur.

Symptom Aggravation

In the 1996 book, "Why Can't My Child Behave," Jane Hersey describes the concept behind this diet. Dr. Feingold designed the program having in mind the "no harm, no risk" principle. According to Hersey, the diet is well-tolerated. However, a small number of children expressed withdrawal symptoms after foods containing artificial additives were removed from the diet. In those few reported cases, the child's symptoms became worse before they improved, especially in those cases when the child was on multiple prescription drugs.

Other Symptoms

When a person changes diet, a few mild symptoms may occur, especially digestive complaints. Since the Feingold program is a diet, the same rules apply. Complaints such as abdominal discomfort and bloating, diarrhea or constipation can occur at the beginning of the diet. Other symptoms include headaches, fatigue and irritability. Rather than being true side effects, these symptoms simply reflect the way a person's digestive system adapts to dietary changes. These symptoms are typically mild and limited, however, if they persist or become more severe, the diet should be discontinued and medical advice sought.

Considerations

Some people expressed concerns about possible nutritional deficiencies while following the Feingold diet. The program eliminates certain fruits and vegetables that contain salicylates but also vitamins, minerals and other nutrients. However, those foods eliminated in Phase 1 are reintroduced in the diet several weeks later. A nutritional deficiency would imply a longer period of time without certain foods. The Feingold program also promotes a healthier, more balanced diet that includes all the essential nutrients -- proteins, fats, carbs and fiber. A study published in "The Medical Journal of Australia" by S. Dumbrell and colleagues on Dec. 2, 1978, found the nutritional quality of the Australian version of Feingold diet was superior to that of a regular diet.

Benefits Outweigh Risks

Overall, the Feingold program is a safe diet. Mild symptoms may occur in very few cases. Ideally, the diet should be monitored by an alternative health care practitioner specialized in nutrition. The Feingold Association also provides email and phone support for its members.