Explain the possible relationships between nutrition and hyperactivity

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Hyperactive children have trouble sleeping, cannot sit still for more than a few minutes at a time, act impulsively, and have difficulty paying attention. These behaviors interfere with social development and academic progress. The cause of hyperactivity remains unknown, but it affects about 11 percent of young school-age children. To resolve the problems surrounding hyperactivity, physicians often recommend specific behavioral strategies, special educational programs, and psychological counseling. If these interventions are ineffective, they may prescribe medication.
Research on hyperactivity has focused on several nutritional factors as possible causes or treatments. Parents often blame sugar. They hopefully believe that simply eliminating candy and other sweet treats will solve the problem. Studies have found no convincing evidence that sugar causes hyperactivity or worsens behavior but dietary changes may still be helpful. Sugar-sweetened foods and beverages displace more nutritious choices from the diet, and, as stated previously, nutrient deficiencies are known to cause behavioral problems.
Food additives have also been blamed for hyperactivity and other behavior problems in children, but scientific evidence to substantiate the connection has been elusive. Limited research suggests that food additives such as artificial colors or sodium benzoate preservative (or both) may exacerbate hyperactive symptoms such as inattention and impulsivity in some children. Additional studies are needed to confirm the findings and to determine which additives might be responsible for specific negative behaviors.