The
elimination of common reactive foods in the child’s diet is the most
beneficial first step in the treatment of ADHD. Sometimes it is only
after removing highly reactive foods like gluten from the diet that
other underlying food sensitivities can be identified. Elimination diets
require 5-7 days, however in about 20% of cases, 8-14 days are needed,
and occasionally, 3 weeks are required. Food elimination diet is
prescribed only short-term, followed by a rechallenge process that is
well structured and clearly demonstrates an effect by the patient or
family at the time.
Children
most likely to respond to dietary changes:
-
Atopic (allergic) medical histories
-
Young age
-
Family history of migraine
-
Elevated histamine levels
Some
children may react to particular chemicals without demonstrating a
positive skin test to that substance.
Sugar
Although
there are anecdotal reports suggesting that sugar increases
hyperactivity and disruptive behaviour, no clinical trials consistently
support this link. However, ADD
sufferers have been found to have decreased
glucose metabolism in specific brain areas.
Tartrazine
The
food dye tartrazine definitely induces deleterious behaviour in some
ADHD patients.
High
Protein, Low Carbohydrate
A
high protein, low carbohydrate, sugar free diet is recommended. In one
study, sugar in addition to a high
carbohydrate breakfast increased deviant behaviour,
while sugar in addition to a high protein breakfast had no significant
effect. These studies suggest that it is not the sugar itself but the
absence of a well-balanced meal plus sugar that can lead to
hyperactivity.
A
higher
protein:carbohydrate ratio has been
noted from studies to be responsible for improved behaviour, mood and
concentration. It has also been noted in studies that there is a
high incidence of carbohydrate craving
among
children with ADHD. There is often a sensitivity to
gluten
and casein containing
foods.
Excessive
intake of phosphorous (phosphate) may be associated with hyperactivity.
Phosphate
containing foods include:
-
Processed and canned meats
-
Processed cheeses
-
Many baked products (phosphate baking powder)
-
All soft drinks
-
All instant soups, puddings, toppings, etc.
-
Various toppings, seasonings, etc.
General
Dietary Guidelines
-
Avoid all processed foods, artificial flavours, colours and
preservatives
-
Avoid
tartrazine, which chelates zinc and increases its excretion
-
Avoid foods rich in
salicylates (oranges, strawberries, rockmelon,
tea, coffee, etc.)
-
Avoid sugar, sucrose, glucose, soft drinks, cordial and lemonade
-
Reduce phosphate intake
-
Plan 5-6 small meals per day
-
Ensure
adequate protein in diet for essential amino acids
-
Liver specific nutrients can be taken to reduce salicylate
sensitivity e.g. glycine
