Adverse Effects of Artificial Food Coloring on Children

Have you noticed your kids losing their minds? Well I am not trying to suggest that you come from a family of the mentally deranged; but if you keep eating junk with all those artificial food coloring, you might be getting there!

Artificial food coloring agents or color additives, are substances that are put in food to offset color loss, have the correct natural color variation, improve the natural occurring colors or simply make the food more visually pleasing.  One thing you have to take note of, the different kinds of artificial food coloring you see in what you eat are NOT very colorful. These color additives have been regulated to ensure that they are safe for consumption. Having that said, many health professionals still believe that in whatever amount they come in, they still pose adverse effects, especially in children. Have you come across the phrase “sugar rush”? Whether you already have or you have not, this phrase describes a child’s behavior after consuming a large quantity of sweets. If you can see your children displaying out of control behavior, and bouncing off the walls, that is what is referred to as “sugar rush”.

The Side Effects of Artificial Food Coloring- No Joke

There has been no proof that artificial food coloring causes attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD); nevertheless, a number of research has found a link color additives to hyperactivity in children.  So do not be surprised why are your kids are so revved up. You should know the answer to your question already. Although the existing research on these artificial food coloring is not that comprehensive, but it would still be better to avoid dyed foods and beverages from your diet. Many food selections contain artificial food coloring that can have the harmful effects on your children’s behavior like erratic impulse control, inability to focus and absorb,  and too elevated energy level.  Children are very vulnerable to the effects of dyed foods, especially those with ADHD and ADD. As per Dr. David Schad last 2004, “dyed foods will likely induce what he termed– neurobehavioral toxicity” which is responsible for behavioral problems. There is not a definite conclusion that food dyes definitely causes ADHD but many believe there is a link, especially for parents of children who have ADHD and other behavioral problems. Now, we would be able to say that “we are what we eat”.

It is high time, especially for parents, to ensure that they themselves and their children are eating the right food. You have to start turning away from food with artificial food coloring, fast food and processed food. Take time to cook for your children.  Home-cooked meals are always better. Aside from avoiding these foods, as much as we want to, we will not be able to eat according to the food guide. So it is very important to supplement our diet with good nutrition. Taking vitamins and good nutrition helps the body to ward off the impact of “junky” nutrition. We owe it to ourselves and especially our children, to eliminate as many artificial ingredients in our family’s diet and eat the most natural food possible and supplement with the right vitamins.[ad#afterpost]