ADHD + Pica (food)-type behavior

My soon to be 7 yo DS has been diagnosed with ADHD but it is controlled by diet (e.g. no food coloring, reduced salicylates). For the last couple months he has been eating food (e.g. yogos, bubble gum, candy) that he finds on the ground. All of the things he goes after have food coloring in them. He also has a tendency to sneak sips from empty soda cans, candy that has been put on top shelves, etc. at home. We have punished him when we catch him and talked to him extensively about this issue. What could be causing this? Is there anything else we can do? His impulse control seems to be a possible issue with this matter.

[LRM1021]

Your son knows that these things are not good for him -- but he is trying to sneak them anyway, because they are enticing to him, and again, if he really has ADHD, then his impulses are not well controlled.
I agree with the previous post-- you need to get some outside help for your son.

[Momtoteenboys]

Diet does not normally have a huge effect on controlling ADHD, so it is likely the culprit still.  

[RStern]

A lot of thoughts come to mind here...  First and foremost, I would want to know whether or not this is the right diagnosis.  Why am I questioning that?  Diet can certainly make a difference for someone struggling with ADHD - but it sounds like your child is going after sugar!  Sugar can make anyone more energetic, hyperactive, etc...

Impulse control?  Of course I am not with your child, nor do I know him - but I wonder how much of it is him being 7?

Something is going on or you wouldn't be here - so maybe I am wrong.  But I wonder what else is going on here?  Is it really ADHD?  Who diagnosed him?  What characteristics does he show?

And who said anything about pica?

Lots of thoughts - be interested to hear more.

Rory