Myth: sugar makes kids hyperactive

There is no relationship between sugar consumption and hyperactive behavior. Kids are naturally enthusiastic, prone to showing excitement for new activities and like to move around. Multiple scientific studies have concluded that children who consume drinks and foods with sugar show no difference in behavior than kids who consume sugar-free products.

The reality is this: sugar does not turn normal children into hyperactive ones.

"Thus, despite numerous anecdotal perceptions to the contrary, systematic, controlled studies show that sugars do not cause hyperactivity."

A.L. Mardis. Current Knowledge of the Health Effects of Sugar Intake. Family Economics and Nutrition Review 13(1): 87-91, 2001.

American Dietetic Association

Carb Myths Busted

"Myth: Carbs cause hyperactivity. Truth: Sugar has been wrongly accused of causing hyperactivity and attention deficit-hyperactive disorder in children for years. No scientific evidence supports any link between the intake of sugars and hyperactivity."

Publication of the American Academy of Pediatrics

What You Need to Know About ADHD, Healthy Children, Fall 2006

"There is no evidence that ADHD is caused by eating too much sugar, food additives, allergies or immunizations."

Sugar Association Publications

• Should You Be Concerned About Your Child Eating Sugar?
• Questions Most Frequently Asked About: The Highly Active Child