|
For sometime now we have all been made aware of the importance
of essential fatty acids to the development of our children's nervous
systems. Now new research has shown that adding zinc sulphate enhances
the action of these essential fatty acids both in the building
of the cell wall and in the manufacture of certain neurotransmitters.
The authors of one study stated
Zinc supplements may exert their positive effects by helping
to regulate the function of the neurotransmitter dopamine. Dopamine
signalling, which has been implicated in causing symptoms of ADHD,
is believed to play an important role in the feelings of pleasure
and reward.
This ‘pleasure area’ is thought to be the main reason why so many
children with Developmental Delay Syndromes crave junk food and
establish a carbohydrate diet for themselves thus fuelling their
addiction. This seeming addiction to sugars and the high intake
of E numbers complicates and perpetuates the underlying neurophysiological
disorder.
Currently, based on research from different parts of the globe
it is suggested that adding zinc sulphate to the daily administration
of omega 3 & 6 (essential fatty acids) enhances the action of
Ritalin or may be used in its place.
This is very exciting news as at present there is a great deal of
concern about the use of Ritalin and the long-term effects it may
have. As zinc is a normal part of our diet and as far as we know
has no side-effects apart from a metallic taste in the mouth and/or
nausea in some cases, this may prove to be a valuable aid in the
treatment of conditions such as ADHD.
It is readily available from Boot’s the Chemist in their own brand
– Zinc One a Day 15mg. All the research to date has used 55mg a
day. At present I am using common sense and suggesting a dosage
related to body weight until such times as more research has been
conducted and a formula for dosage established.
E NUMBERS
By now we are all aware of E numbers but are you sure you know
just where they may be hiding. Some oven ready chips contain them,
as do most fish fingers and the drinks kids love to consume in vast
quantities.
Recent newspaper articles have highlighted the Government backed
research at Southampton University into food additives and behavioural
problems.
Food colourings and preservatives (stabilizers) have been found
to fuel temper tantrums and hyperactivity in children, worryingly,
as young as three.
The Hyperactive Children’s Support Group recommends that the following
be avoided :-
E102, E104, 107, E110, E120, E122, E123, E124, E127, 128, E132,
E133, E150, E151, 154, 155, E160B, E210, E211, E220, E250 E251,
E320 & E321.
Babies and young children should not be given:-
E213, E214, E215, E216, E217, E218, E219, E310, E311, E312, E420,
E421, 621, 622, 623, 627, 631 & 635.
Asthma sufferers should avoid:-
E211, E212, E213, E214, E215, E216, E217, E218, E219, E310, E311,
E312, E321, E421, 621, 622, 623, 627, 631 & 635.
Also Azo dyes:-
E102, 107, E110, E122, E123, E124, E128, E129, E151, 154, 155 &
E180
And preservatives:-
E220, E221, E222, E223, E224, E225, E226 & E227
The following are possibly carcinogenic (tending to cause cancer):-
E110, E123, E127, E153, E249, E250, E251, E252, E320, E321, 905,
907 & E954.
If in doubt consult - E for Additives by M Hanssen Pub. Thorsons.
ISBN 0-7225-1562-6
So how can we help? Click
here
|
01590
612 432
