Diet may affect hyperactive behaviour such as ADHD

A review of existing evidence, published in Network Health Dietitians, has suggested that children whose diet lacks certain nutrients may be more likely to demonstrate hyperactive behaviour.
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) affects one out of every 20 children of school age. Signs of ADHD include over-activity, short attention spans, and fidgeting. Psychotropic drugs have been prescribed for many years now to try and reduce the hyperactive behaviour, but have drawn criticisms from some.
Diets high in sugar have often been considered as having an impact on hyperactivity in children, but research suggests that additives and food colourings frequently used in sweets and fizzy drinks may be affecting behaviour negatively.
A co-author of the review said, Dr Emma Derbyshire, said: “A growing body of evidence points to dietary change as an alternative way of addressing symptoms.”
Dr Stillman, a London GP, said: “There is no doubt soluble sugars do produce a rapid rise in blood sugar and that can have an effect on personality in some people. But it’s usually the things that go with the sugar that have been associated with ADHD symptoms.”
They found evidence which appears to suggest that including more nutrients, such as iron, fatty acids and omega-3, may affect behavioural problems positively, and health experts have warned that many children do not consume enough iron.
“There is accumulating evidence that iron deficiency may contribute to ADHD symptoms,” the review said. “This assumption makes sense given that iron is needed for nerve cell function in the brain and can influence cognitive function.”
However, Dr Stillman did not recommend supplements due to the chance of stomach upsets, suggesting instead to consume foods high in iron, such as fish and brown rice. Oily fish also helps children receive fatty acids such as omega-3, and he said that not only is it beneficial, it is completely safe, criticising the “unpleasant drugs” currently used.
The conclusion of the review said: “Overall elimination diets in the form of reducing food colourings appear to be helpful in the management of ADHD symptoms.”

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