1. Encourage Outdoor Activities
While researcher debate the effectiveness of natural ADHD remedies, exercise is one thing many doctors agree upon. Researchers first noticed the potential of physical activity as an alternative treatment for ADHD during control-group studies on adult ADD patients. These studies found that adults without ADD were better able to concentrate when immersed in a natural outdoor environment. Researchers then explored whether exercise and immersion in a natural environment might also help children with learning disabilities. Anecdotal evidence was collected from parents who reported that their children showed a decrease in ADHD symptoms following outdoor play.
Further studies reveal that the greatest benefits seem to occur when children play around grass and trees rather than on asphalt. Researchers don't yet understand why this is so. Talk to your child's doctor about strategies you can use to combine exercise with symptom management. Some children seem to respond well when asked to perform tasks they normally have trouble with, such as homework, immediately after outdoor play. The therapy doesn't work for everyone. Your child may experience ongoing symptom reduction through regular outdoor play, or he may not respond at all.
2. Introduce Essential Fatty Acids Into the Diet
A lack of essential fatty acids in your child's diet, particularly omega-3, may contribute to learning disabilities. New research has uncovered links between low Omega-3 levels and the onset of developmental disorders. While further inquiry is needed to establish conclusive links, you can try increasing the amount of essential fatty acids your child is eating in the meantime. You'll find high levels of these essential nutrients in eggs, coldwater fish and fish oil supplements.
3. Add Minerals to the Mix
ADHD has been linked with dopamine abnormalities and deficiencies. Iron is an essential mineral direct effects dopamine production, and you might experience positive results after introducing more of it into your child's diet. However, consult with your physician first to ensure that your child doesn't ingest too much iron, which has been implicated with certain forms of heart disease. Magnesium and zinc deficiencies have been found many ADHD patients, so ensuring high levels of these nutrients may remedy some of your child's symptoms. Many parents find a combination of natural and medicinal therapies has the best results. No matter what alternative remedy you seek, pursue these solutions with the guidance of a medical professional, as some alternative remedies may exacerbate your child's condition.
