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Essay / Nutrition and Child Nutrition - 1894
Children become dehydrated more easily than adults and even mild dehydration puts a child at risk for poor concentration and learning difficulties (Rivkin, 2007). Additionally, foods containing artificial flavors and colors promote hyperactivity and disruptive behaviors in children. Behavioral problems and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) have been associated with poor nutritional choices and foods high in sugar, artificial flavors, and chemicals (Tomlinson et al., 2009). ADHD is a concern in children and there is growing evidence that hyperactive children are not getting enough fatty acids in their diet. In a healthy diet, omega 3 fatty acids are precursors to brain hormones that release neurotransmitters and are important for neuronal membrane flexibility (Tomlinson et al., 2009). Diets high in processed foods and low in fatty fish, nuts and eggs lead to fatty acid deficiency and lead to behavioral disorders. Galler et al. (2013) concluded that children with ADHD had significantly lower serum fatty acid levels.