Study: Sugar less likely to be a root cause of hyperactivity in children

Researchers from the University of Virginia found that sugar has little impact on kids diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, reports the Washington Post.

In the study, children consumed a drink that contained aspartame. Half of the parents were told that the beverage contained sugar, the other half was told that no sweetener was added. The results showed no discernable difference in behavior in either group.

Children with ADHD often experience symptoms, including difficulties focusing, interrupting others and excessive talking. Boarding schools can help kids who suffer from ADHD by providing education and therapy geared toward the needs of individuals with this condition.

Experts told the news source that kids thought they could act out after eating sugary food because they knew parents expected bad behavior as a result of consuming candy. They added that sugar consumption is most associated with low structure and high stimulation situations, like birthday parties.

According to a 2006 report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 4.5 million children between the ages of 5 and 17 have been diagnosed with ADHD.