According to the National Institute of Mental Health, hyperactivity is a symptom associated with the condition attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. ADHD is found more often in children but is also found in adults. Characteristics of hyperactivity include an inability to sit still, fidgeting, impulsivity and, sometimes, aggression. The cause of ADHD and hyperactivity itself is still unknown, although research suggests that heredity, environment, impaired brain functioning and nutrition may all play a role. Some individuals with hyperactivity may find relief through dietary changes, although evidence for this is mixed. Check with your doctor before making significant changes to your diet.
Sugar
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, refined sugar such as the kind commonly found in children's cereals, candy, sweetened beverages and desserts may affect the behavior of some children. These behavioral changes can also occur in adults and can include hyperactivity. Your body digests refined sugars quickly, because there is no fiber present to slow digestion down. As a result, sugar is rapidly released into your bloodstream and can elicit the release of the hormone adrenaline. Hyperactive behavior can result from the release of this hormone, although not all people will experience the same reaction. The best way to determine if you or your child's symptoms worsen after consuming refined sugar is to monitor both diet and behavior.
Food Coloring and Additives
Coloring and other additives to foods have been suggested to cause hyperactivity and related symptoms; however, this has not been proven in scientific research. Instead, the Mayo Clinic explains, certain people may have a sensitivity to colorings and additives that make already existing hyperactivity worse. Sensitivity to a specific coloring or additive is specific to each individual; however, yellow dyes Nos. 5, 6 and 10 and red dye No. 40 have shown to be more problematic than other colorings and additives. Several of these colorings and additives are not specifically listed on nutritional labels and can be difficult to identify. If you are unsure if a food contains a specific additive or coloring, check the manufacturer's website or ask your doctor before consuming it.
Lack of Essential Fatty Acids
Essential fatty acids such as omega-3 and omega-6 are known for their association with a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease. Additionally, the University of Maryland Medical Center explains that children with ADHD have been found to have low levels of essential fatty acids in their blood. More research is needed to determine whether supplemental essential fatty acids can reduce symptoms of ADHD, but eating foods rich in these fats is considered safe. Your body can't manufacturer essential fatty acids, so they need to be consumed from food or supplements. Foods that are rich in these fatty acids include fish like salmon and mackerel, flaxseeds, flaxseed oil and olive oil.
Refined Flour, Highly Processed Foods
Many foods marketed particularly for children are sources of refined flour and other nutrient-poor ingredients. According to Medline Plus, a diet that contains large amounts of these foods may effect a child's behavior; however, research has not yet shown that there is a causal effect. Instead, researchers suggest that a healthier diet may help a person with hyperactivity to gain more control over their own behavior. Additionally, reducing refined foods may help to stabilize blood glucose fluctuations that can lead to rapid increases and decreases in energy levels.
References
- National Institute of Mental Health: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
- "Annals of Allergy;" Foods and Additives are Common Causes of the Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder in Children.
- University of Maryland: Hyperactivity and Sugar - All Information
- Mayo Clinic: ADHD Diet: Do Food Additives Cause Hyperactivity?
- University of Maryland: Omega-3 Fatty Acids
