You know the story! Stay away from the dyes they will make your child hyper. Eliminate all dyes and watch your child’s behavior do a 180. So which is it? Studies are ongoing , yet significant enough to cause concern.
Manmade food dyes have been around for over 150 years and continue today. Sometimes they are easy to spot , such as bright blue or pink or “cheese” in processed foods. However, you may not see them as easily when the food is white or brown or yellow. The amount is also not always specified. So how much is too much? Three of the 9 approved for consumption make up 90% of the colors we eat.( Red 40, yellow 5 and 6 ).
Does this mean I am eating petroleum? Well , this comes down to science. Molecules are isolated from petroleum, purified and used in different forms also found in over the counter medicines. The FDA puts great effort and restrictions on the testing of each batch requiring proof that they are safe for consumption.
Testing shows that while some children are clearly affected by these colorings others show minor if not any change. The simple truth of it is that avoiding processed foods altogether will eliminate the worry. However, we know that in todays world , that is virtually impossible outside of the home, where most of our children spend their days. Pre-existing ADHD, genetics and leaky gut may all play a factor in how the body processes these chemicals.
One thing I know is true, we should lean toward a whole foods diet and eliminate processed foods as much as possible. The chemical breakdown of food in the body is very complicated and has been disrupted by the over abundance of packaged foods. We should do our best to read the labels and continue to educate our children on the importance of nutrition to their overall wellbeing.
Try some of these natural food dye recipes with your child when you have the time. : ) Kalesyrahsyrah!
Green In a blender, combine 3 unpacked cups fresh spinach and 1/2 cup water until it forms a smooth liquid. Replace the water or milk in your frosting recipe with an equal amount of the spinach mix.
Purple Puree 1/2 cup fresh or thawed frozen blackberries in the food processor; press through a strainer set over a bowl. Use 3 tsp. puree for each 3/4 cup of frosting; add more if desired.
Pink Wash, trim, and peel 8 ounces of beets. Cut into small cubes and place them in a saucepan with just enough water to cover, about 1 cup. Cover and simmer until liquid has reduced to about 1/4 cup, roughly an hour. Strain beet juice. Use an equal amount to replace milk or water in your frosting recipe.
