The Potential Dangers of Artificial Dyes: Why Genexa Believes in Clean Medicine
Written by Genexa Team on October 18, 2024
Medically reviewed by Dr. Taz Bhatia, integrative physician and Medical Advisor to Genexa
In recent years, more parents and caregivers have started questioning what goes into the products they give their children—especially when it comes to over-the-counter medicine. Artificial dyes, found in many foods and medications, are under increased scrutiny due to their potential effects on health. While these dyes may make products look more appealing, research suggests that they could be causing harm, particularly to infants and children.
But how dangerous are they? And why are they still allowed in our food and medicine? We spoke with Dr. Taz Bhatia, an integrative physician and Medical Advisor to Genexa, to explore why clean medicine is a great choice.
How Do Dyes Affect Children and Infants?
According to Dr. Taz, artificial dyes may impact children and infants in various ways. While there’s still debate in the medical community, there is growing concern over their link to behavioral issues such as hyperactivity and attention problems. These concerns have led some experts to believe that dyes may even exacerbate conditions like ADHD. Dr. Taz explains, “Dyes affect children and infants in a variety of ways, including impacting behavior, attention, and hyperactivity. They are also linked to allergic reactions and can worsen sensory issues in infants.”
Parents with children prone to allergies, eczema, or neurobehavioral challenges should be particularly cautious about the cumulative effect these dyes can have on their kids’ health. Dr. Taz urges parents to be aware of the cumulative load of dyes, preservatives, and additives that children are ingesting, which she believes is a key factor in pediatric conditions today.
Are Dyes in Foods and Medications Dangerous?
The short answer is maybe—artificial dyes can be dangerous, especially when they accumulate in the body over time. While the FDA says dyes are safe, there’s still cause for concern. “I think dyes are concerning and, yes, dangerous once they reach a critical load,” says Dr. Taz. However, this threshold can vary from person to person, meaning what might be safe for one child could trigger adverse effects in another.
Some dyes have been banned in the United States. Others have been banned or restricted in other countries. California recently banned Red Dye 3, while European regulators have long required warning labels on products containing certain artificial colors. Despite this, the FDA has not yet moved to restrict these ingredients, claiming there’s not enough scientific evidence to support a ban.
Why Are Dyes Still Allowed in Foods and Medicine?
The simple answer is that artificial dyes make products look more appealing, particularly to children. From brightly colored cereals to the red and blue syrups in over-the-counter medicines, these dyes are used to enhance the product’s visual appeal. “Dyes are typically regulated by the FDA and the European Union,” Dr. Taz explains. “They are used to add color and make food look more attractive. While California has banned some dyes, like Red Dye 3, the FDA believes there is still not enough science to ban them.”
This discrepancy between regulations in different parts of the world highlights why it’s so important for parents to take a closer look at what they’re putting in their children’s bodies.
Clean Medicine: A Safe Choice for Families
The shift toward clean medicine is an important step for families seeking clean alternatives. Genexa’s products are made with the same effective active ingredients as the leading brands but with no artificial preservatives, sweeteners, flavors, or dyes. Genexa goes beyond by ensuring its medicines are Non-GMO Project Verified, Certified Gluten-Free, and free from common allergens. With rigorous standards, Genexa delivers clean, effective relief without compromise.
By choosing clean medicine, parents can confidently support their children’s well-being, knowing they’re avoiding unwanted artificial fillers. “We need to think more about the cumulative load of dyes, preservatives, and additives that children are ingesting,” explains Dr. Taz. “This is the tipping point for much of what we see today in pediatrics, from allergies and eczema to sensory issues and ADHD.”
With Genexa, you no longer need to choose between clean and efficacy. You can feel good knowing that you’re providing your family with medicine made with clean, trustworthy inactive ingredients—without sacrificing effectiveness.
Join the Clean Medicine Movement
As the first clean medicine company, Genexa is committed to providing families with medicine they can feel good about. By removing unwanted additives like artificial dyes, Genexa offers a clean choice for everyone.
Explore Genexa's range of clean medicine products, including options for Infants & Kids, Pain, Cold & Flu, Digestion, Sleep & Stress, and Allergy, to find the right solution for your family.