In 1987 the HACSG, with the support of Professor Neil Ward, Senior Lecturer in Chemistry at the University of Surrey and the Group’s Scientific Director, found that out of a total of 357 children who had been diagnosed as hyperactive, 87% had adverse reactions to artificial colourings and 72% to artificial preservatives in food.
Similar results were discovered in 1993 at the Institute of Child Health. As long ago as 1987, a Scottish psychiatrist, Dr. Ian Menzies, obtained consistently positive results in treating hyperactive children by removing artificial additives from their diet. Similarly, a report published by the Food Commission confirmed that studies involving 277 children on the Isle of Wight had shown food additives to be a major cause of misconduct in children.
A study commissioned by the FSA and carried out at Southampton University was published in the medical journal The Lancet in September 2007. Its findings supported the Isle of Wight research results, and showed a definite link between food additives and behavioural problems such as hyperactivity and allergic reactions.
The results of this study led to calls to ban all artificial additives in food, especially for children. Major supermarket chains in Britain such as Sainsbury’s, have now removed all additives from their own brand products such as soft drinks and children’s meals. This is a very positive step forward.
Our Aims
Our aim is to provide information and advice to Parents, Carers and Professionals seeking solutions for children and young people who may be affected by Hyperactivity and/or ADHD.
The HACSG is unable to offer diagnosis or medical advice. We are more than happy to talk over any concerns Parents, Carers or Professionals may have and will do our best to investigate a dietary and nutritional approach.
Our Publications
We have a number of helpful and informative publications available to order from Our Publications page.
The HACSG Food & Behaviour Diary is now available online.