What we’re learning—and why it matters now more than ever
When I talk about food as medicine, I’m not just talking about what we add into our bodies—I’m also talking about what we need to remove.
Because here’s the truth:
Many of the foods lining our grocery store shelves today are not just food… they are formulated products filled with additives, preservatives, and artificial dyes that were never meant to nourish the human body—let alone the brain.
And we are finally starting to see the consequences.
What Science Is Showing Us About the Brain
Research shows us that additives, preservatives, and artificial dyes can change behavior, mood, and brain function—especially in sensitive individuals.
- Multiple clinical trials show a clear association between synthetic food dyes and hyperactivity and behavioral changes in children
- Studies have found a small but measurable negative effect on attention, cognition, and behavior
- Certain artificial colors have been linked to increased hyperactivity in some children
- Even children without diagnosed conditions can experience irritability, restlessness, or difficulty focusing
And here’s what I want you to really hear:
👉 The brain is not separate from the body
👉 What we eat directly influences how we think, feel, and function
Some of these dyes—like Red 40—are derived from petroleum-based chemicals.
That alone should make us pause.
Why This Matters More Right Now
We are in a moment of change.
Regulatory agencies in the United States are under increasing pressure to reevaluate synthetic food dyes, and there are ongoing efforts to phase out certain additives in the coming years. Some dyes have already been restricted or banned due to safety concerns.
That’s not a coincidence.
That’s a signal.
For years, this conversation was pushed aside. Now it’s coming forward—and for good reason.
The U.S. vs. Europe: Same Product, Different Ingredients
This is where it becomes impossible to ignore.
Many companies—like Kellogg’s—sell the same cereal in different countries… with completely different ingredient lists.
- In the United States → artificial dyes like Red 40, Yellow 5, Blue 1
- In Europe → natural colorings like paprika, turmeric, or beet extract
Why?
Because Europe has stricter regulations.
- The European Union requires warning labels indicating that certain dyes may affect activity and attention in children
- Many countries have restricted or removed synthetic dyes altogether
And what happened?
Food companies didn’t resist—they adapted.
👉 It’s not that they can’t make cleaner products
👉 It’s that they haven’t had to—until regulations require it
The Bigger Picture: It’s Not Just About Kids
While much of the research focuses on children, this applies to all of us.
We’re seeing more:
- Brain fog
- Anxiety
- Mood fluctuations
- Difficulty concentrating
And while there are many contributing factors, we cannot ignore the role of chronic exposure to ultra-processed foods and chemical additives.
Even subtle changes—over time—matter.
My Perspective as a Nutritionist
I’ve seen this firsthand.
When people remove highly processed foods—especially those filled with artificial dyes and preservatives—they often say:
“I feel clearer.”
“I have more energy.”
“I didn’t realize how much it was affecting me.”
This is not about fear.
It’s about awareness.
And it’s about giving your body—and your brain—the environment it needs to function at its highest level.
Where Do We Go From Here?
You don’t need to change everything overnight.
Start here:
- Read labels
- Choose whole, real foods whenever possible
- Be mindful of brightly colored, ultra-processed products
- Pay attention to how you feel after eating
Because your body will always tell you the truth—if you’re willing to listen.
Final Thought
If companies can create a cleaner version of the same product for other countries…
Why wouldn’t we expect the same for ourselves—and our families?
A Question to Reflect On
If the food you eat has the power to influence your thoughts, mood, and focus… what kind of fuel are you choosing for your brain each day?
To Health & Longevity,
𝑀𝒶𝓇𝒾𝒶 𝐻𝓊𝒷𝓈𝒸𝒽𝑒𝓇
Sources
- National Institutes of Health (NIH) – Review of synthetic food dyes and behavioral effects in children
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9052604/ - U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) – Food additives and color additives overview
https://www.fda.gov/food/food-additives-petitions/color-additives-questions-and-answers-consumers - European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) – Evaluation of food colors and safety assessments
https://www.efsa.europa.eu/ - Cleveland Clinic – Overview of Red 40 and potential health effects
https://health.clevelandclinic.org/red-dye-40 - Food Standards Agency (UK) – Guidance on artificial colors and hyperactivity
https://www.food.gov.uk/safety-hygiene/food-additives