We know from a poll we conducted here on ThinkBaby that you parents count healthy eating as a priority for your children. However, we all also appreciate that from time to time, children (as they get a little older) enjoy treats that aren't homemade, and quickly parents find the ingredients their children are eating is seemingly beyond their control.
Additives and artificial colourings in food have become a reality of daily life, and while we might fight them as often as possible, we have also all become a little more laidback about the notion that some E numbers are perfectly safe and functional.
Indeed, for many children, there are E numbers which are perfectly fine, yet some have been known to bring out the worst in other infants. Now the Food Standards Agency have updated their advice about colourings to ensure that the latest studies are reaching parents.
Who is at risk from certain E numbers?
Research carried out by Southampton University has shown that in children who already show some signs of hyperactivity or ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder), can be affected negatively if they eat and/or drink products which contain artificial colours at the same time as ingesting the very common preservative sodium benzonate. Their behaviour can be caused to deteriorate.
Children aged three, and children aged eight and nine were included in the study.
What should be avoided?
The items which are best avoided are:
Sunset yellow (E110), Quinoline yellow (E104), Carmoisine (E122), Allura red (E129), Tartrazine (E102) Ponceau 4R (E124), and Sodium benzonate (E211).
It is when there is a mixture of these present that the effects seems to be negative in some children.
What can parents do?
Hyperactivity is not only caused by or worsened by the effects of artificial food colourings. There is usually a wider picture bringing in the child's health, environment and (in some cases) even factors like being born prematurely. If you feel your child may have a problem, see your GP.
If you know your child is prone to hyperactivity or has a disgnosed problem like ADHD, do your best to avoid foods which will have colourings in them. Stick to simple foods and good quality food where possible.
By law, additives have to be listed on packaging, so take the time to inspect labels when shopping. You'd be surprised at what some foods really contain.
On the upside, many companies are already getting rid of articifical additives. Smarties for example, no longer contain articifical colourings.
You can find out more about additives and colourings at www.eatwell.gov.uk.
