Should sugar be eliminated from the diet of someone with ADHD?
ANSWER
Some children become hyperactive after eating candy or other sugary foods, but no evidence suggests that this causes ADHD. For the best overall nutrition, sugary foods should be a small part of anyone's diet, but try cutting them to see if ADHD symptoms improve.
From: ADHD Diet and Nutrition WebMD Medical Reference
Reviewed by Smitha Bhandari on June 27, 2019
SOURCES:
WebMD ADHD Guide: "Topic Overview."
WebMD ADHD Medications and Treatments Blog, Richard Sogn, MD: "ADHD Natural Supplements and Nutrition" and "Food Coloring and Additives."
Feingold Association of the United States: "Many learning and behavior problems begin in your grocery cart!"
McCann, D.
, Nov. 3, 2007.
Schonwald, A.
, February 2008.
LancetAAP Grand Rounds
USDA MyPyramid.gov: "What are discretionary calories?"
Bateman, B. June 2004. Arch Dis Child,
SOURCES:
WebMD ADHD Guide: "Topic Overview."
WebMD ADHD Medications and Treatments Blog, Richard Sogn, MD: "ADHD Natural Supplements and Nutrition" and "Food Coloring and Additives."
Feingold Association of the United States: "Many learning and behavior problems begin in your grocery cart!"
McCann, D.
, Nov. 3, 2007.
Schonwald, A.
, February 2008.
LancetAAP Grand Rounds
USDA MyPyramid.gov: "What are discretionary calories?"
Bateman, B. June 2004. Arch Dis Child,
THIS TOOL DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE. It is intended for general informational purposes only and does not address individual circumstances. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment and should not be relied on to make decisions about your health. Never ignore professional medical advice in seeking treatment because of something you have read on the WebMD Site. If you think you may have a medical emergency, immediately call your doctor or dial 911.
This tool does not provide medical advice. See additional information.