Diet and hyperkinesis--an update

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Allergy and Immunology
• Neurodevelopmental Disorders
• Nutritional Science

Background:

• Dr. Feingold's hypothesis linked childhood hyperactivity and learning disabilities to food additives.
• Feingold claimed significant improvement in 75% of hyperactive children upon dietary elimination of additives.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the validity of Feingold's hypothesis regarding food additives and childhood hyperactivity.
• To summarize findings from controlled double-blind studies conducted over the last five years.

Main Methods:

• Review and synthesis of results from multiple controlled double-blind studies.
• Comparison of study outcomes with Feingold's original claims.

Main Results:

• The majority of controlled studies yielded negative results, failing to support Feingold's hypothesis.
• A small percentage, approximately 2%, of hyperactive children may exhibit adverse reactions to dye additives, though this is debated.
• Feingold's claim of 75% improvement is unsubstantiated by current rigorous research.

Conclusions:

• The adverse effect of food additives on hyperactive children is minimal, affecting an estimated 2% at most.
• There is insufficient evidence to warrant high-priority research or public policy changes concerning food additives and hyperactivity.
• Childhood hyperactivity (hyperkinesis) is multifactorial, necessitating research into other biological and psychological etiologies.