Red dye 40 is a synthetic food dye made from petroleum. Research has shown that it is linked to certain ADHD symptoms, such as hyperactivity, and may also cause other neurobehavioral effects in children. People can check for red dye 40 on food labels if they wish to limit their intake.
Research, however, does not support the view that ADHD is caused by food additives or coloring. The research does show that these ingredients can make symptoms worse for some people affected by ADHD.
Research shows that red dye 40 has been linked to increased ADHD symptoms in certain children. The increased symptoms include hyperactivity and impulsiveness.
Some experts recommend that people with ADHD avoid these substances: Artificial colors, especially red and yellow. Food additives such as aspartame, MSG (monosodium glutamate), and nitrites.
Although the evidence is still considered inconclusive, numerous studies have shown that food dyes can worsen behavior in some children.
The studies that were reviewed in this article show that diet, especially consumption of artificial food coloring, produces statistically significant increases in ADHD symptoms in children.
Some of the common foods that can cause ADHD reactions include milk, chocolate, soy, wheat, eggs, beans, corn, tomatoes, grapes, and oranges. If you suspect a food sensitivity may be contributing to your child's ADHD symptoms, talk to your ADHD dietitian or doctor about trying an elimination diet.
Foods rich in protein — lean beef, pork, poultry, fish, eggs, beans, nuts, soy, and low-fat dairy products — can have beneficial effects on ADHD symptoms. Protein-rich foods are used by the body to make neurotransmitters, the chemicals released by brain cells to communicate with each other.
As you know, one trademark of ADHD is low levels of the neurotransmitter dopamine — a chemical released by nerve cells into the brain. Due to this lack of dopamine, people with ADHD are "chemically wired" to seek more, says John Ratey, M.D., professor of psychiatry at Harvard Medical School in Boston.
Red dye 40 is a synthetic food dye made from petroleum. Research has shown that it is linked to certain ADHD symptoms, such as hyperactivity, and may also cause other neurobehavioral effects in children. People can check for red dye 40 on food labels if they wish to limit their intake.
People with ADHD are often over-stimulated by colors, patterns, and even temperature. Choose neutral, soft, and calming hues of blue, green, and brown to encourage more restful sleep.
Blue hues are known for slowing down the heart rate, reducing respiratory rhythm, and encouraging calm and focus. In general, stick with muted or pastel shades, and avoid primary colors. Cut down on abrasive background noise when having a conversation.
In Australia and New Zealand, this artificial red colour is not permitted to be added to confectionery. However, it is permitted in countries where the samples were manufactured (China, India, USA, and Thailand).
Soft drinks – Sprite, Coke, Diet Coke, Mountain Dew; no red or purple dyes. Gatorade – No red or purple dyes. Any clear drinks – water, lemonade, etc.
Kids with ADHD are also advised to consume foods rich in zinc and magnesium. Both of these minerals are essential in bettering ADHD symptoms. Bananas are another great source of zinc and magnesium. They are also a great evening snack.
Ginkgo and Ginseng for ADHD
“These herbs are cognitive activators,” says Brown. They act like stimulants without the side effects. Typically, adults and children who take ginkgo and ginseng improve on ADHD rating scales, and are less impulsive and distractible.
Protein-rich foods
Share on Pinterest Eggs and whole-grain bread may benefit people with ADHD. Protein is essential for the health of the brain, and it plays a key role in producing brain chemicals called neurotransmitters. Including protein in a meal also prevents spikes in blood glucose levels.
Vitamin B & C
Finally, supplementing vitamins B and C can also help alleviate ADD and ADHD symptoms. Vitamin C, like zinc, iron, and magnesium, is used to produce neurotransmitters like dopamine. Additionally, vitamin B deficiency is linked to irritability and fatigue in children.
Food Dyes. Commonly used food dyes, such as Yellow 5, Yellow 6, and Red 40, pose risks including behavioral problems and hyperactivity in some children. Some dyes also pose a risk of cancer (like Red 3) and allergic reactions (like Yellow 5, Yellow 6, Red 40, Blue 1).
The three dyes most consumed–Red 40, Yellow 5 and Yellow 6–are the dyes most likely to cause systemic allergic reactions. These same dyes also contain the cancer-causing contaminants Benzidine, 4-aminobiphenyl and 4-aminoazobenzene. Red 3 has been found to increase the risk of thyroid tumors in rat studies.
Food additives such as Aspartame, high fructose corn syrup, MSG, and food coloring/dyes (including Red #40 and Yellow #5) are neurotoxins that can disrupt normal nervous system function, leading to increased symptoms of anxiety.