The cause of attention deficient hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, is not clear. A number of factors are suspected to be at play, ranging from genetics and environment to brain injuries. Children's diets -- particularly in regard to additives in processed foods -- have received considerable attention for their role in both the development and management of ADHD.
Understanding ADHD
ADHD can be difficult to diagnose because many of the signs are mistaken for other mental or behavioral issues. Children with this disorder may be labeled as having emotional or disciplinary problems. ADHD signs include the inability to concentrate, hyperactivity and impulsive or impatient behaviors. These signs must be present before the age of 7 and persist for a minimum of six months to receive an ADHD diagnosis, according to the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. Experiencing significant dysfunction in at least two areas of life, such as academics or social settings, is another requirement for diagnosis.
Sugar and Food Additives
The issue of if -- and how -- diet influences ADHD is controversial. The National Institute of Mental Health points out that evidence is lacking when it comes to sugar consumption increasing hyperactivity; children who consume sugar have no worse learning abilities or behavior than those who use artificial sweeteners. The debate over food additives is still a major issue among parents and the scientific community. A U.S. Food and Drug Administration panel released its conclusions on the subject in 2011, finding that not enough evidence exists to prove that additives cause hyperactivity or inattention in most children; however, some kids with ADHD may have a sensitivity to these chemicals, which could potentially affect their behaviors, says Harvard Health.
Irregular Eating Habits
One way you may help your child manage the disorder is to keep them on a regular eating schedule. Kids with ADHD are more likely to eat inconsistently and may be prone to binging, according to HelpGuide.org. Sticking to a consistent eating plan of nutritious foods supports the body and mind and can affect behavior. Providing children with healthy meals or snacks on a schedule creates a daily routine, an important consideration when managing ADHD. Kids with this disorder need structure to meet daily goals and expectations.
Restrictive Diet
A 2011 study, published in "The Lancet" found that a restrictive diet could improve ADHD symptoms in young children. Participants, ages 4 to 8, followed a diet containing no processed foods. Meat, rice, veggies, fruit, potatoes and wheat were main components of the eating plan. ADHD symptoms were eliminated in 78 percent of the participants who followed the diet for five weeks; two-thirds of the children saw their symptoms return once going off the diet. More research is needed to determine whether eliminating processed foods has long-term benefits.
References
- National Institute of Mental Health: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
- American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry: What is ADHD?
- Harvard Health; FDA Panel Finds No Link Between Artificial Food Colorings and Hyperactivity in Most Children; Michael Craig Miller, MD; April 2011
- HelpGuide.org; ADD/ADHD Parenting Tips: Helping Children with Attention Deficit Disorder; Jocelyn Block, MA, Melinda Smith, MA, Jeanne Segal, PhD
- Drugs.com; Restrictive Diet May Reduce ADHD Symptoms; February 2011
