Change of diet may be the key to hyperactivity

BY NATASHA ZAMBURRO
MONDAY, MAY 22, 2006

A diet free of various foods and additives has proved successful in reducing hyperactivity in children, according to researchers at the Department of Pediatrics at the University of Calgary, Canada.

During a 10-week study, 24 hyperactive preschool-aged boys followed an elimination diet program. Parents of the participants detailed sleep problems or physical signs and symptoms of hyperactivity to the researchers. Divided into three parts, the study involved a baseline period of 3 weeks, a placebo-control period of 3 weeks and an experimental diet period of 4 weeks.

The experimental diet eliminated artificial colours, flavours, chocolate, monosodium glutamate, preservatives, caffeine, and key substances identified by the families of their specific child. The diet was also low in simple sugars, and was dairy free if the family reported a history of possible problems with cow's milk.

An improvement in behaviour was exhibited by more than half of the participants. Non-behaviourable conditions such as halitosis, night awakenings and latency to sleep onset also improved while on the diet.

"The best way to assure your family receives a diet free from additives, pesticide residues and possible mood stimulants is to make organic choices where possible," Health Brands Australia's resident Naturopath Natasha Zamburro says.

"Elimination diets are a great tool to identify possible key substances which may be a causative factor in your child's hyperactivity. Just be sure you replace the eliminated foods with healthier options and that the diet remains balanced."