My mother-in-law keeps telling us to cut out sugar and food colouring and our son's ADHD will be 'cured'. My wife's friend swears by some elimination diet. I'm sceptical but desperate enough to try anything. What's the actual evidence here?
3 replies
Lisa W
7 March 2026
Diet won't CURE ADHD — anyone who says that doesn't understand what ADHD is. However, some kids ARE sensitive to artificial colours and preservatives, and eliminating those can reduce hyperactivity in SOME children (not all). The research supports this for a subset of kids. It's worth trying, but don't expect miracles.
Michelle K
7 March 2026
The sugar thing is actually a myth — multiple studies show sugar doesn't cause hyperactivity. What IS true: ADHD kids often have irregular eating patterns, and blood sugar crashes can worsen dysregulation. Regular protein-rich meals and snacks help stabilise energy and focus. That's not a cure, it's just good fuel for a busy brain.
Sarah M
7 March 2026
We did the elimination diet with an actual dietitian (important — don't just wing it). Turns out my son IS sensitive to some artificial colours. Removing them didn't cure his ADHD but reduced some of the 'extra' hyperactivity. Think of it as turning the volume from 11 to 9. Still ADHD, just slightly more manageable.
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