ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) is considered to be an epigenetic condition, which means that some people may be more genetically predisposed than others, but that the condition may be expressed, primarily, when triggered by environmental factors. Diet is often investigated as a major contributing factor to ADHD. Any teacher or parent who has seen the "off the wall" response of children to sugary drinks can understand the concern about any ingredients that are potential triggers.
The above article in the Washington Post reports on a recent study that suggests a link between food additives and ADHD. Scientists cited in the article have urged caution, because a number of important factors not accounted for in the study may have skewed the data, including Socio-Eeconomic Status, gender, and dietary habits. Recently, I read about the distinction between studies that show causation and correlation, and skeptical scientists are suggesting that the link needs to be investigated further. Unfortunately, the author of the article did not describe how the study was constructed, which makes it difficult to come to any firm scientific conclusions. However, everybody probably needs to pay closer attention to our dietary inputs.
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