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Sugar and food additives have long been blamed by some for children's hyperactivity, or more specifically, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Too much sugar can make any child overly energetic, so the effects on children with ADHD can be worse. With food colorings and some other additives, people sensitive to them would react, and children with ADHD could react to a greater degree.

ADHD is not caused by sugar or artificial colorings or additives. It is a brain disorder that affects a person’s ability to concentrate, to sit still and to control impulses. Treatment typically involves medications and behavioral therapy.

Dietary modifications may also help. Many research studies have concluded that special diets didn’t really help, or that the extra attention given to the children was the actual cause of the improved behavior. Some studies, however, indicate certain additives can make ADHD symptoms worse, and that certain ADHD children can be helped by special diets.

A nutritious, balanced diet is important for every child, but such a diet can have even greater benefits for children with ADHD. Here are the basics, which you’ll see pretty much correspond to anyone’s healthy diet and help maintain even blood-sugar levels. More complex approaches involve long lists of banned and allowed foods, as well as diets in which specific foods are eliminated and then added back to the diet to learn their effects. Consult with your pediatrician about your own child’s situation. You’ll need to read labels carefully.

• Avoid sugars (including high-fructose corn syrup) and sugary foods such as candy, cookies and sweetened cereals.
• Avoid artificial colors in foods, particularly red and yellow.
• Avoid additives like sodium benzoate, nitrites and MSG, as well as the artificial sweetener aspartame.
• Cut down on foods made from white flour and white rice.
• Get adequate protein from lean meats, fish, poultry, eggs and dairy products.
• Have a good breakfast, including protein, for better concentration.
• Have more high-fiber foods, as in whole grains, beans, whole fruits and vegetables.