Food Dyes and the Consequences

Written by Jane Yoon

Scientists have been extensively looking at the relation between ADHD and food dyes but to no avail. There have been mixed results that do not fully prove a significance yet. However, they have found (through many, many experiments) suggestions that the sugar in food dyes is associated with hyperactivity.

There are food dyes in almost all foods - even ones you wouldn't expect.

There are two types of approved color additives - dyes and lakes. Dyes are water-soluble and usually come in the form of powders, granules, or liquids. Lakes are not water-soluble. They are found in products containing fats and oils. Food dyes are now commercially used to brighten the color of foods so that they look fresher and better tasting. It is enough to capture the interest of children; they enjoy eating blue and green fruit snacks and rainbow yogurt. The Food and Drug Administration says that the food dyes that have been passed are not harmful to the consumers, but if children are exposed to unhealthy amounts of artifical colors, then they are more likely to experience bad side effects and reactions to them.
Scientists are not positive as to what causes ADHD but they have a good idea of what may contribute. Such things include hereditary factors, environmental toxins, changes in brain structure, and food additives. Food dyes are observed in this study because the sugar and carbohydrates in them may have an effect on ADHD. These sugars produce a rapid increase in blood glucose levels because they enter the bloodstream so quickly. A rapid increase in blood glucose levels could cause the consumer (most likely a child) to suddenly become active and full of adrenaline. This is not a fact, but a viable proposal.