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 Children,
Behavior and Diet: A Look at ADHD
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder or ADHD for short
is characterized by hyperactivity and an inability to
concentrate. Those who suffer from ADHD may be described
as being restless and distractible. In addition they have
tend to disrupt any environment that tries to control
them. They have poor impulse control, often display abrupt
mood swings, have inappropriate anger, and sometimes are
violent. Schoolwork suffers from inattention,
disorganization and poor memory. They have average or
above-average intelligence. It is estimated to affect up
to 4% of the US school population. ADHD became
increasingly apparent in the 1980’s and today every school
classroom has at least one hyperactive child.
 The
relationship between food and hyperactivity became popular
in the 1970’s when California Allergist Benjamin Feingold
claimed that food additives caused behavioral and learning
disorders in children. While other investigators were
unable to find the same results as Feingold, a number of
well-controlled studies have recently addressed the role
of food allergy in learning and behavior.
How do you modify the diet of a child with behavioral
problems? Many parents prefer to explore a dietary
approach first before considering medications. If
exploring dietary interventions it is best to do this with
the guidance of a registered nutrition professional. By
working with a registered dietitian you can ensure that
the child is receiving adequate nutrition if certain foods
need to be eliminated. A diet free of allergens, colors,
flavors and preservatives can be overwhelming for both
parents and children.
 Some
parents may attempt a mini trial of eliminating foods that
they highly suspect affects their child’s behavior. These
foods are usually processed, pre-packaged, commercially
prepared and convenience-type foods. All meals and snacks
are prepared from “scratch.” If the child’s behavior
improves after several weeks, foods eliminated are added
back one at a time, to see whether it clearly worsens the
child’s behavior. Dietary approaches such as this may be
helpful, but if a true food allergy is suspected it is
best to consult with an allergy specialist. True food
allergies can influence a child’s ability to concentrate
as well as impact on their behavior.
Whether or not your child has behavioral problems, he or
she should eat a nutritious diet. Try to minimize the use
of fatty, salty, and sugary foods-from burgers, fries,
soft drinks, potato chips, and candy and emphasize
consuming a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and
vegetables and whole grains to provide vitamins, minerals,
fiber, and phytochemicals (plant chemicals). It is
important to your child's current and future health to eat
a balanced diet. In the process you may also need to
examine your diet and make changes to set a good example!
 
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