It makes me angry as well. My four-year-old is extremely hyper, and I sat down and did research as to what could be causing it. There is a body of
study that links sugar, food dyes (red & yellow) and food allergies to what is commonly called ADHD, and by reducing these elements as much as
possible and adding salmon oil capsules (provides the fatty amino acids that the brain needs for proper neuron function) and vitamins A&D, I found
that the studies were correct. At least in my case -- I acknowledge that others may have a more serious problem, but I wonder how much it is
explored before the medication option is taken.
The thing is, food dyes are almost impossible to eliminate unless one goes completely organic, and organic stores are somewhat of a rarity and
extremely expensive around here. Just finding children's vitamins without sugar and dyes was difficult, but GNC came through. Would you believe
farmers feed red dye to chickens so that the yolks of their eggs are a more pleasing yellow? Even some juices have dyes added to them!
I know that some teachers would rather have zombie children than deal with hyper ones. It was recommended that I be put on medication when I was in
kindergarten, and my parents refused. I figure it's the least I can do for my own child, and considering I grew out of my hyperactivity, he stands
every chance of doing the same.
What really concerns me is that by giving children stuff like lithium, etc. at such a young age, their brains are being altered before they're even
fully grown. The long-term effects are nothing to underestimate. I'd rather withstand hyperactivity now and take a dietary approach than have my
kid commit suicide later.
[edit on 7-6-2004 by Hecate100]
Getting used to a new keyboard, argh!
[edit on 7-6-2004 by Hecate100]