Children’s Behavior and Diet

Posted by Barb Hacker Jan 24, 2008

The relationship between diet and behavior is an extension of holistic parenting. The tricky part for parents is to learn what constitutes a healthy diet.

The first step any parent can take to learn about healthy eating is to learn about artificial food additives. The Feingold Association has researched the effects food additives, including artificial colors and flavors, have on behavior. According to Feingold, some children can have severe reactions to food additives and exhibit signs of ADHD and even autism when they eat additives. Neurotypical children can have problems with temper, hyperactivity and concentration when food additives are consumed.

We began following the Feingold program last spring when my son’s behavior was difficult. After a few days of avoiding artificial additives, he was calmer and his behavior had improved considerably. The rest of us felt and acted better too.

While we try to always follow Feingold, we get sidetracked sometimes. The holidays were particularly difficult with parties and an abundance of candy. The kids were hyper, fought more and had more tantrums. My husband and I had shorter fuses and found ourselves snapping at each other and the kids.

Back on Feingold, everyone settled down. I have vowed to try harder when the next holiday rolls around to keep additives out of our diets.

I invite you to join me in the discussion, The Connection Between Diet and Children's Behavior. I'd love your perspective on the relationship between food and behavior.