Attention Deficient Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD), is the most commonly diagnosed neurological disorder among children. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that 4.5 million children have been diagnosed with ADHD as of 2006, meaning approximately 3 to 7 percent of school age children have the disorder. ADHD is more commonly found in boys than girls, and to date, there is no definitive known cause though there are many theories.
Genetics
The strongest factor that can be identified as the cause of ADHD is genetics. According to the Mayo Clinic, approximately one in four children that are diagnosed with ADHD will have one or more blood relatives with the disorder as well. Information published by Dr. Muenke and Dr. Berg on the link between genetics and ADHD indicates that studies have also shown that one-third of men who had ADHD at a child will have a biological child with the disorder. Extensive research is being conducted both in the United States and Europe to try and identify if a specific gene is responsible for the disorder.
Brain Chemistry
The brain is blueprint for the body. The exact cause of ADHD is unknown; however, brain scans show differences between the brains of individuals with ADHD versus the brains of those without the disorder. An article published in March 2010 in "Science Daily" highlights the substantial amount of evidence that dopamine, a neurotransmitter, is involved with ADHD. Research indicates that the level of dopamine within the brain is involved with the progression of the disorder. Dopamine disorders in the frontal lobes can cause a decline in memory and attention, according to the Medical News website.
Dietary Issues
Research linking diet and ADHD are still in the preliminary stages, with scientific research being performed on both sides of the issues. Studies have shown that there is no link between what a person eats and ADHD, while other studies show there is a connection. Chemicals put into the body such as sugar, preservatives and additives have been linked to ADHD by researchers such as Dr. Benjamin Feingold. Dr Feingold created an elimination diet removing preservatives and additives from children's diets and found that ADHD behaviors decreased. A drawback of the elimination diet is that is it very difficult for many to maintain.
Mineral Deficiencies
Lack of appropriate minerals within a diet may also result in ADHD behaviors. Low levels of necessary amino acids, essential fatty acids, magnesium, zinc, and iron have all been linked with ADHD through a variety of studies. Dr. Daniel Amen, an expert within the field of ADHD and brain disorders, instructs many of his patients to take a multi-vitamin as well as fish oil supplements daily to combat these deficiencies. Though it is not been proven definitely, some researchers claim that dietary changes and supplements for the treatment of ADHD may be as effective as prescription medication.
