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We went through exactly the same thing, which also started with red #40-laced antibiotics prescribed for frequent ear infections. By the time my son was two we completely cut out all food dyes and his behavior really improved. But, because food dyes are everywhere, he sometimes gets it by accident, and then we know we are in for three days of hell. Until recently, I just thought this would be something we would just have to deal with...but since the recent studies and food dye bans in the United Kingdom, I am optimistic that the US will do the same. I am starting to take action. I keep up with recent articles about food dyes, and research on the web. I write to companies like Mcdonald's, Mars, and Nestle to ask them to use natural food colorings in the US, like they already do in the UK. I am writing letters to my legislators to ask them to ban food dyes, starting with the schools. This can happen, but word has to get out. More people have to ask! More people have to stop buying items with synthetic food dyes. We have to tell as many people as we can. It's a good time, and as Jamie Oliver begins his "Food Revolution" we can include a "Food Dye Rebellion!"
Gina
Thanks for your response and the links you provided in your second reply. I am fascinated that you said "three days" because so many people thought I was nuts when I said my son's behavior changed for three days after having red dye! I would be counting down the hours until he became his normal self again.
Eileen
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When my son was 2 or 3 he experienced hyperactivity, defiance and just would run around in a ciricle or back and forth with such a burst of energy. My best friend didn't beleive me and gave him 3 red fish. he would run through the house and to the playset and back into the house wihtout stopping for about 5 minutes until the energy wore off. I took dyes out of his diet for about 3 years. I would gradually let him start having it in small quanities at age 6 and didn't see the same effect on him. I still don't buy too many things with dyes in it cause its just not good for you but they say it affects young children. I won't say hes not defiant because he defently is at age 7 but he doesn't get that burst of energy. So your son can grow out of it.