Barbara, our beauty expert, will help fix your problems
Dear Barbara,
Does sugar really make children hyperactive? My niece keeps eating chocolate and refuses to eat anything other than that. She is 3-years-old, stays up till midnight and refuses to sleep even after a lot of trying. Should we take her to a doctor because we are really worried about her behaviour?
— Sagar Desai, Vasai
Dear Sagar,
Numerous studies have confirmed that sugar does not cause hyperactivity. In fact, a few drops of sugar water (a half teaspoon in one ml of water) can soothe a fussing baby. When sugar enters the bloodstream and reaches the brain, it temporarily increases calming neuro-chemicals such as serotonin. There can be other reasons why your niece is hyperactive. Try finding out what makes her behave that way. Also, cut out canned outside food that contains preservatives as they can cause mood swings in toddlers. It is best if you try talking to her and encourage her to channel her energy into something constructive like a sport or a hobby that interests her.