Nutrition Choices Linked to ADHD in Children, Expert Claims

A top professor argues that parents may unintentionally contribute to ADHD in their children through poor nutrition choices. Professor Emeritus David Benton of Swansea University highlights that ultra-processed foods, often high in sugar and fat but low in essential nutrients, could play a significant role. He questions why additives alone are blamed when the broader diet quality, often linked to socioeconomic factors, may be the real issue.

Studies show that ADHD is more common among low-income families, who often rely on cheaper, processed foods. Benton points out that while additives have been scrutinized, the focus should shift to the overall nutritional value of a child’s diet. He emphasizes that even ’clean’ foods like milk, eggs, and fruits have been linked to hyperactivity in some children, suggesting a complex relationship between diet and behavior.

Benton concludes that there is no one-size-fits-all solution for managing ADHD through diet. Parents should consider their child’s overall nutrition rather than just avoiding additives. The debate underscores the need for further research into how specific foods and chemicals affect behavior, especially in vulnerable populations.

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