Hyperactivity and sugar

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Diet - hyperactivity

Regardless of the true impact of sugar on children's activity level, remember that sugar remains the major culprit in tooth decay. Limit the amount of processed sugars that your children eat as much as possible.

High-sugar foods tend to have fewer vitamins and minerals, and may replace more nutritious foods. High-sugar foods also have many unnecessary calories that can lead to obesity.

Some people have allergies to specific dyes and flavors. If a child has a diagnosed allergy, consult a dietitian for specific food recommendations.

Giving your child plenty of fiber in their diet to keep adrenaline levels more constant. For breakfast, fiber is found in oatmeal, shredded wheat, berries, bananas, whole-grain pancakes. For lunch, fiber is found in whole-grain breads, peaches, grapes, and other fresh fruits.

Provide "quiet time" so that children can learn to calm themselves at home. If your child cannot sit still when other children of his or her age can, or if he or she cannot control impulsive behavior, seek a professional evaluation.

Review Date: 01/24/2006
Reviewed By: Benjamin W. Van Voorhees, MD, MPH, Assistant Professor of Medicine andPediatrics, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL. Review provided byVeriMed Healthcare Network.