Nutrition Diva Do food dyes cause hyperactivity?
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Nov 27, 2024 California has made headlines by banning certain food dyes in schools, raising questions about their safety. The debate over the link between food dyes and hyperactivity in children dates back to the 1970s, with mixed evidence and parental influence complicating assessments. Additionally, listeners learn how these regulations could impact sensitive children, along with practical tips for parents navigating the new landscape of food choices. It's a fascinating exploration of both science and policy in children's nutrition.
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Food Dye Usage and Impact
- Food dyes are added to enhance color, sometimes unexpectedly, in foods like yogurt and crackers.
- These dyes impact taste perception, with colored macaroni and cheese tasting cheesier than uncolored versions.
Food Coloring Safety and Reputation
- FDA-approved food colorings undergo thorough safety evaluations.
- Despite this, artificial colors have a negative reputation, particularly concerning hyperactivity in children.
Feingold Diet
- Pediatrician Ben Feingold proposed a diet eliminating artificial colors and preservatives to treat hyperactivity.
- His results were questioned, with claims of excluding unsuccessful cases from his data.