Sodium benzoate is a food preservative and additive commonly used in many artificial foods. Many people are intolerant of sodium benzoate, especially children. Some studies have shown that sodium benzoate intolerance may be associated with ADHD in children among its possible symptoms. If you are concerned about the possibility of any food intolerance, please consult your child's doctor.
Bottled soda (Source: bhofack2 / iStock / Getty Images) Sodium benzoate
Responses caused by food intolerance Slower than real food allergies. According to BBC Health, unlike allergic reactions, food intolerance does not involve the immune system and is generally not considered life-threatening. Common food intolerance is associated with lactose, caffeine, sulfite, salicylate and sodium benzoate. Sodium benzoate is used to mask the taste of many processed foods. According to the Food Reactions website, it is highly concentrated in orange soft drinks, milk, meat products, condiments, baked goods and lollipops.
Physical Symptoms
Dr. Adrian Morris said that in an article by BBC Health, food intolerance is difficult to diagnose because, unlike food allergies, there is no reliable blood or skin test. However, some studies have shown that sodium benzoate intolerance can cause skin reactions such as urticaria, also known as urticaria. A study published in the Allergy Journal in 1984 found that 4 out of 27 children had urticaria sodium benzoate. The food response also noted that sodium benzoate "known to cause urticaria and aggravate asthma."
Mental/psychological symptoms
Sodium benzoate has received much attention due to its potential impact on ADHD. Inattention is not concentrated, and symptoms are usually associated with children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder or ADHD. A study published in the Journal of Children's Diseases in 2004 examined the effects of eliminating artificial pigments and benzoate preservatives for one week in children with ADHD. After the initial assessment, children were randomized to receive a beverage containing 20 mg of artificial colorion and 45 mg of sodium benzoate during the dietary challenge, or a placebo mixture, the researchers found that they received a drink containing artificial colors and sodium benzoate.The child's hyperactive behavior increased significantly.
Notes
Do not attempt to self-diagnose your child's food intolerance. Although it is generally recommended to eliminate preservatives as much as possible, if you suspect that your child has sodium benzoate intolerance, you should discuss dietary changes with your child's doctor. Be aware of any food that causes your child's reaction, including food and specific reactions, and discuss it with your pediatrician.
