After extensive research, we still haven't found a link between diet and hyperactivity. Somewhere between 2 to 10 percent of elementary age children have A.D.D. Most are boys. The child with A.D.D. is not just active. He also has a very short attention span, is easily distracted and easily frustrated. He may also have visual problems, lack some of the normal motor skills for his age or have psychological problems as well.
Traditional therapy includes psychological counseling for the child and the family, and drugs.
The drugs are typically stimulants which have a reverse effect on hyperactive children. Many other treatments have been tried, but have not proven successful. The sugar-hyperactivity link may have come about because some high sugar foods like chocolates and soft drinks contain caffeine. Caffeine, a stimulant, can make normal children nervous, jumpy, more easily frustrated and more active. However, caffeine often has a calming effect on children with A.D.D., it does not cause A.D.D. Sugar does not appear to cause A.D.D. either.