Trigger Foods For ADHD

There have been studies done that have suggested there are certain “trigger” foods for ADHD. What this means is that these foods can potentially trigger, or worsen, symptoms of Attention Deficit-Hyperactivity Disorder. Below is a short list of the trigger foods in question.

1. Additives – An additive is an ingredient found in food products that has been added because it doesn’t occur naturally within the particular food. The majority of foods have additives to help increase their shelf life or to make their appearance more desirable. There are some additives that also improve the tastes of the food in question. Examples of common food additives include monosodium glutamate, nitrates, sodium nitrates and artificial sweeteners. All of these additives have been implicated as possible ADHD symptom enhancers.

2. Gluten – Gluten is a protein that is found in various grains, most commonly wheat. Maybe you know someone on a “gluten-free diet”? While some people do this voluntarily, there are many who choose to reduce their gluten intake because of the possibility that the protein increases ADHD symptoms as well as symptoms linked to other behavioral disorders.

3. Dairy – Another potential trigger food for ADHD is the protein found in dairy products. This is the protein “casein.” This protein has been known to find its way from the stomach (gut) and into the blood stream, which may cause inflammation and increase ADHD symptoms.

4. Sugar – There’s a reason so many parents dislike sugary products. Sugar has been blamed for behavioral problems for centuries now. When consumed in large (sometimes minimal) doses, it has a tendency to make children more active…and those with ADHD can even become out of control. While it isn’t official, the majority of adults agree that it should be kept at a minimum for children with ADHD due to their reactions after it enters their system.

5. Insecticides – While insecticides are not considered foods, they are consumed by humans because they are sprayed on the fruits and vegetables we eat. Recent studies have raised suspicions that the residue left from pesticides may worsen ADHD symptoms. Therefore, purchasing organic produce is the better option when available.