The cause of attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder remains unknown. One theory that works to explain the cause of ADHD involves an individual's diet. While the research substantiating the link between diet and problems related to ADHD is limited, the importance of eating a healthy diet is essential to overall health and well-being.
Sugar
While some point to refined sugar as a contributor to ADHD and its symptoms, the National Institute of Mental Health indicates that most research does not provide support for this theory. Research shows that changing the amount of sugar children consume does not consistently alter behavior. Daniel Hoover and Richard Milich conducted a study and published the results in the "Journal of Abnormal Child Psychology." In the study, one group of mothers were led to believe their children had received sugar, while the children had actually consumed Nutrasweet. The mothers of these children reported their children were more hyper and had more behavior problems than the mothers who didn't think their children had received sugar. The researchers concluded that the expectations of the mothers had a greater effect than the actual sugar consumption.
Food Additives
Food additives, such as food coloring and preservatives, may make ADHD-related symptoms worse. Dr. John E. Huxsahl, writing for the MayoClinc.com website, indicates that it remains unknown what specific additives may affect behavior the most. He suggests that parents observe whether their child appears sensitive to a particular type of food. If a food seems to cause a change in behavior, removing the food from the child's diet may have benefits. Diets, such as Feingold, recommend completely eliminating food additives from a child's diet. The National Resource Center on ADHD cautions that most studies do not support the benefits of this type of diet, however.
Supplements
Evidence supporting the use of dietary supplements for individuals with ADHD is limited. If an individual lacks certain nutrients, the National Resource Center on ADHD recommends addressing this issue. At present, though, research does not support the idea that a lack of certain nutrients causes ADHD. Further, taking large doses of any vitamin or combination of vitamins without the supervision of a doctor may pose a danger to the individual.
Overall Diet
Maintaining a balanced diet remains the best course of action for optimum health. Huxsahl recommends that everyone, including people with ADHD, consume a diet with fruit, vegetables, fish, grain, lean meats and limited junk food. Balancing healthy levels of physical activity with caloric intake also affects overall health. Any diet that suggests eliminating certain types of foods carries the risk of vitamin and nutrient deficiency.
Considerations
Evidence is limited that supports any form of diet, food additive or supplement that may cause or relieve ADHD and related symptoms. Prior to taking supplements or attempting an elimination diet, such as Feingold, consult with a medical professional. When judging the worth of any theory reported in the media regarding a cause for ADHD, the National Resource Center on ADHD suggests that individuals consider the source of the information, the credibility of the experts or authorities and who funded the research, as well as the results of the research.
References
- "Journal of Abnormal Child Psychology"; Effects of Sugar Ingestion Expectantcies on Mother-Child Interactions; Daniel Hoover and Richard Milich; January 1994
- MayoClinic.com: ADHD Diet: Do Food Additives Cause Hyperactivity?; John Huxsahl, M.D.; November 2009
- National Institute of Mental Health: What Causes ADHD?
- National Resource Center on AD/HD: Complementary and Alternative Treatments
