Your Diet & ADHD

You’ve probably heard that sugar makes you hyper. However, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), there is no link between sugar and hyperactivity. Many parents of children with ADHD often report that their child is more hyperactive after consuming a sugary candy or beverages, but some studies have found that sugar may actually decrease a child’s attention. One such study, involving preschool and school-age children described by parents as sensitive to sugar, found that diets high in sugar (and free of additive) had no effect on children’s behavior or cognitive function. According to The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the reason this myth persists may be purely psychological or due to the tendency for ADHD children to consume sugary foods at activities like birthday parties — activities where they are already excited and full of energy. This does not mean that children should gorge themselves on sweets. It may not be linked to hyperactivity, but sugar is linked to obesity and diabetes, according to the AAP.