Schab 2004: Do artificial food colors promote hyperactivity in children with hyperactive syndromes? A meta-analysis of double-blind placebo-controlled trials

schab2004Journal of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics, 2004 Dec;25(6):423-34.

Searching 10 databases for double-blind placebo-controlled trials on the effects of artificial food dyes, Schab and Trinh found 15 that met their criteria.

QUOTE:  “Our meta-analysis supports the hypothesis that AFCs (artificial food colorings) promote hyperactivity in hyperactive children, as measured on behavioral rating scales.

QUOTE:  ”Despite indications of publication bias and other limitations, this study is consistent with accumulating evidence that neurobehavioral toxicity may characterize a variety of widely distributed chemicals. ”

NOTE:  Explaining why his results are not consistent with the Kavale & Forness (1983) meta analysis, Schab says that this analysis included two trials they had overlooked and two that were published later; three of these were large, which increased the power of this meta-analysis.

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