Are Food Dyes Fueling Hyperactivity? New Report Links Synthetic Colors to Behavioral Issues in Kids

Report Highlights Link Between Synthetic Food Dyes and Hyperactivity in Children

A new report from the California Environmental Protection Agency's Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA) has revealed a concerning connection between synthetic food dyes and neurobehavioral issues, such as hyperactivity, in children. This two-year study found that some children are more sensitive to these dyes than others, raising questions about the safety of current regulations on food dyes.

Understanding the Risks

For decades, synthetic food dyes have been added to everything from candies to beverages, giving food vibrant colors that appeal to kids. However, the report shows that these dyes can do more than just brighten a product—they can have serious consequences for children's behavior. The findings suggest that consuming synthetic food dyes can lead to hyperactivity, memory issues, and other neurological effects.

Research highlighted in the report shows that children diagnosed with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) have risen from 6.1% to 10.2% over the last 20 years. The increase in ADHD rates and other behavioral issues spurred California lawmakers to ask OEHHA to investigate the potential role of synthetic food dyes in this growing problem.

OEHHA Director Dr. Lauren Zeise states, "With increasing numbers of U.S. children diagnosed with behavioral disorders, this assessment can inform efforts to protect children from exposures that may exacerbate behavioral problems."

Outdated Standards for Safety

The report critiques the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) existing safety guidelines for synthetic food dyes, which were set decades ago based on older studies. These outdated studies failed to account for the behavioral effects now observed in children. Newer research suggests that the acceptable daily intake (ADI) levels for some food dyes might be too high, meaning children could be consuming unsafe amounts through everyday products like soft drinks and snacks.

In studies where children were placed on a dye-free diet, researchers observed significant improvements in behavior. However, once synthetic dyes were reintroduced, children with a higher sensitivity to dyes showed increased hyperactivity and other neurobehavioral issues.

Key Takeaways for Parents

This report highlights the need for greater awareness among parents and caregivers about what’s really in the food their children consume. Synthetic dyes are often found in products marketed specifically to kids—think brightly colored cereals, fruit-flavored drinks, and candies. The research showed that children are exposed to multiple dyes daily, with the highest exposures often coming from soft drinks and juice drinks.

For parents looking to protect their children's health, a key strategy is to minimize exposure to synthetic dyes by reading food labels and choosing more natural or dye-free alternatives.

The Future of Food Dye Regulations

OEHHA's report suggests that revising current ADI levels based on modern studies could result in stricter regulations and lower exposure to these dyes. If new guidelines were adopted, common exposures to food dyes like Red No. 3 could easily exceed safe limits, reinforcing the need for updated policies.

This report is a crucial step in helping protect the health of children and sheds light on the need for continued research and regulatory action. OEHHA’s mission to safeguard public health remains at the forefront, and its findings may lead to future changes in how food additives like synthetic dyes are regulated.

Parents, educators, and policymakers alike should consider the implications of this research and advocate for safer food practices to protect the well-being of children.

Ready the full article: https://oehha.ca.gov/risk-assessment/press-release/report-links-synthetic-food-dyes-hyperactivity-and-other?fbclid=IwY2xjawGHarxleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHfTte63liuUsguHF11juAVjTWMdPewEkrTlOWLOWZcCUMdD94jCYp-S-IA_aem_JFuK2C72xmE4QXzDrmoYtw&sfnsn=mo

For parents concerned about hyperactivity and behavioral issues linked to synthetic food dyes, Shaklee offers several natural alternatives that may help support brain health, focus, and overall behavior in children. Here are some Shaklee products that may be beneficial:

1. B-Complex

Shaklee's B-Complex provides essential B vitamins that help support the nervous system, energy levels, and mood. B vitamins play a key role in brain function, and deficiencies can contribute to behavioral issues like irritability and lack of focus. This supplement may help kids maintain steady energy and promote calmness.

2. Vita-Lea® Ocean Wonders (Multivitamin)

This chewable multivitamin is designed specifically for kids and provides a comprehensive range of vitamins and minerals, including those that support cognitive function, like vitamin D, zinc, and magnesium. Good nutrition can help stabilize behavior and improve mental clarity.

3. OmegaGuard® (Omega-3 Fatty Acids)

Omega-3s are essential for brain development and function. Shaklee’s OmegaGuard provides high-quality fish oil rich in DHA and EPA, which have been linked to better attention, memory, and learning abilities in children. Omega-3s are often recommended for kids with ADHD or attention issues.

4. Mighty Smart® (Omega-3 DHA Chews)

This is a kid-friendly version of OmegaGuard, formulated into delicious, chewable soft gel squares with DHA. DHA is critical for brain development, and supplementing with omega-3s can help manage hyperactivity and improve cognitive performance in children.

5. Optiflora® DI (Probiotics)

Gut health plays a huge role in mental well-being, and poor gut health can exacerbate behavioral issues. Shaklee's Optiflora DI is a probiotic that supports digestive health and helps balance the gut-brain connection, which may improve mood and focus in kids.

6. Cheer Up & Chill Out Gummies

These fun, kid-friendly gummies are designed to help calm anxious minds and promote a positive mood. Made with natural ingredients, these could be a great addition to a child’s routine to help support better emotional balance and focus, especially when dealing with daily stresses or hyperactivity.

7. Mental Acuity Plus

For older children or teenagers struggling with focus and memory, Mental Acuity Plus may help. It’s formulated to support mental sharpness, enhance concentration, and boost cognitive function.

8. Shaklee Performance® – Hydrate (Natural Electrolyte Drink)

Instead of sugary sports drinks or beverages with artificial dyes, parents can opt for Shaklee’s natural Hydrate drink, which provides electrolytes and hydration without synthetic ingredients. It’s a great alternative to keep kids hydrated while avoiding the dyes often found in popular drinks.

Diet and Lifestyle Support

In addition to supplementation, promoting a whole-foods diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats can help manage behavioral issues. Limiting processed foods with synthetic additives and promoting regular physical activity can further support children’s mental and physical health.

These Shaklee products can serve as part of a holistic approach to improving kids' behavioral health and supporting their overall well-being. For personalized recommendations, parents can always consult with a healthcare provider or nutritionist.

Other links and resources to check out: https://healingherhome.com/2023/08/30/food-dye-risk-in-the-rainbow/

This information is not intended to replace medical care. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure. This report is not to be used as a substitute for appropriate medical care and consultation, nor should any information in it be interpreted as prescriptive. Any persons who suspect they have a medical challenge should consult their physicians/pediatricians for guidance and proper treatment