Certain foods significantly influence children’s behaviour and mood beyond the commonly known impact of sweets. While sugar is notorious for causing hyperactivity, there are other culprits hidden in the snacks and meals we provide to our little ones. The following five foods are the primary contributors to mood and behavioural changes in children.
- Dairy: For children with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies, mood and behaviour alterations may manifest. Symptoms range from irritability and crankiness to aggression. Frequently, children with dairy issues also experience recurring colds and ear infections. gassy symptoms may be observed in babies, while toddlers and older children might become inconsolable and irritable.
- Artificial Colouring: Banned in many countries due to its adverse effects on children, artificial colouring is linked to ADHD, anxiety, hyperactivity, and headaches. Often hidden in unexpected foods like bread and yogurt, it can cause significant behavioural changes. Watch out for Yellow No. 5, Red No. 40, and Blue No. 1 in food products if you’re concerned about your child’s mood swings.
- Sugar: Beyond hyperactivity, sugar consumption has been associated with long-term health issues. A diet high in processed foods, common in the average child’s diet, has links to depression, cognitive delay, and sleep problems.
- Preservatives: Certain preservatives like nitrates, nitrites, and sodium benzoate can contribute to behavioural problems in children. Monosodium glutamate (MSG), a flavour enhancer, is known to cause mood and behaviour changes, including headaches and hyperactivity. Sodium benzoate is often found in children’s juice products.
- Food Allergens: Common allergens like dairy, nuts, eggs, soy, and corn can lead to significant health and behaviour problems. Identifying the specific allergen can be challenging without professional help. Sometimes, a food intolerance is mistaken for conditions like ADHD.
We often observe changes in behaviour or mood of the children we care for and we regularly suggest that the parents of these children track their children´s diet and note when concerning behaviour occurs. We suggest that they experiment by eliminating suspicious foods to assess changes. While not the sole cause of all behavioural issues, understanding the impact of food is crucial for addressing easily remediable concerns in children.
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