Researchers believe that there are many different causes of ADHD, and new research has provided previously unknown information that improves our understanding of how the condition develops. These include: • Food Additives — As recently as 2011, the general consensus in the scientific community was that food was not the cause of ADHD. However, according to a report (Potential Neurobehavioral Effects of Synthetic Food Dyes in Children, Published April 2021) from the OEHHA (Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment) in the state of California, research indicates that children who consume synthetic food dyes, including red dye 40 (Allura Red AC), can experience hyperactivity and other neurobehavioral issues. Sensitivity to food dyes can vary from one person to the next, but most research has focused on children. Adverse effects can occur in children with and without ADHD or other preexisting behavioral conditions. Other causes include: • Genetics • Exposure to environmental toxins • Exposure to substances in utero • Illness and injury • Premature birth