Eating Ourselves To Death: Color Of Controversy

FLORIDA — BACKGROUND: Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, is a common condition that affects children and adolescents and can continue into adulthood for some. Children with ADHD generally have problems paying attention or concentrating. Adults suffering from ADHD may have difficulty with time management, organizational skills, goal setting, and employment. They may also have problems with relationships, self-esteem, and addictions. (SOURCE: http://www.webmd.com)

SYMPTOMS: The symptoms of ADHD fall into three groups:

• Lack of attention (inattentiveness)
• Hyperactivity
• Impulsive behavior (impulsivity)

Some children with ADHD primarily have the inattentive type. Others may have a combination of types. Those with the inattentive type are less disruptive and are more likely to not be diagnosed with ADHD. (SOURCE: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealh)

THINGS YOU MAY NOT KNOW: ADHD is the most commonly diagnosed behavioral disorder of childhood. It affects about 3 - 5% of school aged children. ADHD is diagnosed much more often in boys than in girls. (SOURCE: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth)

ADHD AND FOOD DYE: A study by the United Kingdom's Food Standards Agency, in 2007, showed that the consumption of foods containing dyes could increase hyperactive behavior in children.  Based on the results of this study, the U.K. Food Standards Agency advised parents of children with ADHD to eliminate food additives from their child's diet. The Agency also encouraged companies to remove artificial coloring from food products. In the U.S., though, the FDA still considers artificial food colors to be safe when used properly. (SOURCE: http://www.webmd.com)

TREATMENT: A combination of medication and behavioral treatment works best. There are several different types of ADHD medications that may be used alone or in combination. Psychostimulants (also known as stimulants) are the most commonly used ADHD drugs. Although these drugs are called stimulants, they actually have a calming effect on people with ADHD. (SOURCE: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth)

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