Additives And Hyperactivity
There has often been concern that the use of artificial additives in our foods may have adverse effects on the behaviour of children. Studies in the past have had inconclusive findings, suggesting any possible effects of additives are dependent on the individual.
The latest study to investigate the relationship between food additives and hyperactive behaviour in children was released in 2007. Behaviour was measured over a period of time during which children were given a drink containing a mixture of commonly ingested artificial food colours and the preservative sodium benzoate (commonly found in soft drinks). The results of the study show a mean increase in hyperactive behaviour. It must be noted however that hyperactive behaviour was not demonstrated in all children, with some children not responding at all, while others had significant responses.
This study sparked international interest and an in-depth analysis by the Committee of Toxicity (COT). The key findings of this investigation are:
- All children were assigned the same dose dependent on their age. No allowance was made for variations in body weight therefore no relationship could be determined between the size of the dose and body weight.
- The time of day the drink was taken was not indicated to parents nor was this time recorded. It is therefore difficult to determine the duration of effects or time taken to observe any effects.
- As all the additives were given in a single dose it is impossible to determine if one had a greater effect over the others.
- This study provides additional supporting evidence to suggest the link between food additives and hyperactivity in some children. It may have more relevance for children who tend towards greater hyperactivity. Further investigations are recommended.
What can you do?
- Read labels. All artificial additives are labelled in the nutritional information panel on foods. The additives used in this study were E102, E110, E122, E124, E129 and 211.
- Reduce intakes of confectionary, soft drinks, cordials, cakes and biscuits as these contain most of the additives found in our diet.
- Ensure your children have plenty of fruit, vegetables wholegrains, nuts and seeds as these and other minimally processed foods contain no additives.
- Encourage your children to get active. This helps keep them fit, develop motor skills and burn off any extra energy they may be harbouring.