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| - Last Updated on October 30, 2024 by Dr Priyamvada
Quick Take
A social media post claims that sugar in babies brain causes ADHD. We have fact checked and found the claim to be FALSE.
The Claim
Dt Anushi jain posted a video on her account saying that sugar in children’s brains can cause ADHD, along with other claims, and that excessive sugar in the body may contribute to cancer.
Fact Check
What causes ADHD in babies?
ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition, and its exact causes are still unknown. However, several factors contribute to the development of ADHD in children:
- Genetics: ADHD tends to run in families, suggesting a hereditary component. Certain genes related to neurotransmitter regulation may play a role.
- Brain Structure and Function: Research shows differences in the size and activity of certain brain regions in children with ADHD, particularly those involved in attention, impulse control, and executive function.
- Environmental Factors: Prenatal exposure to toxins (like tobacco smoke or alcohol), low birth weight, premature birth, and exposure to environmental pollutants have all been link to an risk of developing ADHD.
- Neurotransmitter Imbalances: Abnormalities in brain chemicals, such as dopamine and norepinephrine, may affect attention and behaviour.
- Psychosocial Factors: While not direct causes, family dynamics, socio-economic status, and educational environments can influence the severity and management of ADHD symptoms.
It’s important to note that ADHD likely happens by a combination of these factors rather than a single cause. If you have concerns about ADHD in a child, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional for assessment and guidance.
Dr Roma Kumar, Senior Consultant Psychologist, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital & Max Hospital, New Delhi, explains that ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) is a condition that affects children and can continue into adulthood. It involves difficulties with attention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, primarily caused by genetics and brain development. While diet, including sugar, can influence ADHD symptoms in some people, it’s not a primary cause. ADHD is more closely related to genetic and developmental factors, so sugar should be viewed as just one of many influences rather than a direct cause.
Dr. Manisha Gaur, PhD in Clinical Psychology and Director of the Gaur Mental Health Clinic, Ajmer, says that approximately one in seven children has ADHD. The condition is primarily genetic. If a family member has ADHD, there is a higher likelihood of it being passed down. Additionally, traumatic experiences encountered by mothers during pregnancy—such as epileptic seizures or accidents—can also contribute to ADHD in children.
How is ADHD diagnosed in babies?
ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) diagnosis is not simple or there no single test to diagnose it. Many people say that diagnosing ADHD in babies is challenging, but some look for signs such as persistent crying and difficulty soothing them. In children typically involves several steps:
- Comprehensive evaluation: A healthcare professional, often a paediatrician, psychologist, or psychiatrist, conducts a thorough evaluation. This includes a detailed medical history, developmental history, and an assessment of the child’s behaviour.
- Behavioural checklists: Parents and teachers may be asked to complete standardised behaviour rating scales or questionnaires. These tools help assess symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity in various settings.
- Observation: The clinician may observe the child in different settings, such as at home and in school, to understand how symptoms manifest in different environments.
- Criteria from DSM-5: The clinician refers to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) criteria. For a diagnosis, symptoms must be present for at least six months, appear before age 12, and cause significant impairment in functioning.
- Rule out other conditions: It’s essential to rule out other conditions that might explain the symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, or learning disabilities.
The process aims to ensure an accurate diagnosis and guide effective treatment.
As we examine the potential link between sugar consumption and ADHD in children, it’s important to consider other dietary factors and environmental influences, such as fluoride in water, which have also been scrutinized for their impact on brain health.
Does the brain contain sugar?
Yes. Dr Shalin Nagori, MBBS, MD, from City pathology Halol, Gujarat, said the brain contains sugar, primarily in the form of glucose. Glucose is a crucial source of energy for the brain, supporting its various functions. While the brain makes up only about 2% of body weight, it consumes approximately 20% of the body’s total energy, with glucose being the primary fuel used for its metabolic processes.
Does sugar in babies brain cause ADHD?
No. Dr Unmesh Upadhyay, President of Paediatric Association of Ahmedabad (2023-24), Founder and Senior Consultant Paediatrician Vismay Childcare Hospital, said, “Studies on the connection between sugar and ADHD have found little to no evidence that sugar directly influences ADHD symptom. Sugar does not directly cause ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) in babies and children.”
ADHD is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder influenced by various factors, including genetics, environment, and brain structure. Sugar consumption may exacerbate symptoms in some children, particularly if they have sensitivities to dietary changes, but it is not a root cause. High sugar diets can lead to blood sugar fluctuations, potentially affecting mood and behavior. Overall, while reducing sugar may help some children with ADHD manage their symptoms better, it is not a definitive cause-and-effect relationship. A comprehensive approach, including balanced nutrition and other lifestyle factors, is crucial for supporting children with ADHD.
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