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Hyperactivity: is candy causal?

D A Krummel1, F H Seligson, H A Guthrie

  • 1West Virginia University School of Medicine, Morgantown.

Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition
|January 1, 1996
PubMed
Summary

Scientific studies show no evidence that sugar or artificial food colors in candy cause hyperactivity in children. Diet changes are not recommended for behavioral issues; a multidisciplinary approach is advised.

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Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Nutrition
  • Behavioral Science
  • Food Science

Background:

  • Anecdotal reports link candy consumption to adverse behavioral responses in children.
  • Parents and teachers frequently attribute hyperactivity and disruptive behaviors to candy intake.
  • Scientific validation is necessary to confirm or refute these commonly held beliefs.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To scientifically investigate the purported adverse behavioral effects of candy, sugar, and artificial food colors in children.
  • To evaluate the Feingold hypothesis regarding food additives and hyperactivity.
  • To determine the efficacy of diet-based interventions for childhood behavioral problems.

Main Methods:

  • Review of numerous double-blind, placebo-controlled studies examining sugar challenges.
  • Analysis of studies investigating the impact of artificial food colors, caffeine, and chocolate on behavior.
  • Evaluation of research on the Feingold hypothesis and elimination diets.

Main Results:

  • Multiple double-blind studies found no evidence that sugar ingestion causes behavioral issues in children, including those with Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.
  • Research has largely rejected the Feingold hypothesis, indicating elimination diets offer no significant benefit beyond a placebo effect.
  • Studies on candy and chocolate consumption did not reveal any negative behavioral effects.

Conclusions:

  • There is no scientific substantiation for the belief that sugar or candy causes hyperactivity or adverse behavioral responses in children.
  • Dietary interventions are not considered an appropriate primary treatment for children's behavioral problems.
  • A multidisciplinary approach is recommended for managing behavioral issues, focusing on a balanced diet for optimal growth and nutrition.

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