Research has found a possible link between certain artificial colours used in food and problems with hyperactivity in children. If your child is overactive and struggles to concentrate, it might help to cut down on these colours in their diet.
Food colours linked to hyperactivity
All food additives – including artificial colours – have an "E number", which means they've passed safety tests and are approved for use in the EU. The six food colours most closely linked to hyperactivity in children are:
E102 (tartrazine)
E104 (quinoline yellow)
E110 (sunset yellow FCF)
E122 (carmoisine)
E124 (ponceau 4R)
E129 (allura red)
These colours are used in a number of foods, including soft drinks, sweets, cakes and ice cream.
Should my child avoid these food colours?
If your child is hyperactive, or has attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), there's some evidence to suggest that avoiding the six food colours may help. But it is important to be aware that:
hyperactivity can have many different causes, including genetics, and food colours are probably only a small part of the problem
removing food colours from your child's diet won't necessarily lead to an improvement in their behaviour
the link between food colours and hyperactivity isn't completely certain – more research is needed for confirm it
If other medications haven't helped, stronger painkillers, such as morphine-based medications, may be recommended. These can be started by a GP but may need to be reviewed by a pain specialist. If these medications don't help, they should be stopped.
The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has a list of questions about medications used to treat neuropathic pain that you may want to ask your pain specialist.
Living with post-herpetic neuralgia
Living with post-herpetic neuralgia can be very difficult because it can affect your ability to carry out simple daily activities, such as dressing and bathing. It can also lead to further problems, including extreme tiredness, sleeping difficulties and depression.
The British Pain Society, Pain Concern and Pain UK
can also provide further help and support.
can also provide further help and support.
Source: NHS Choices