All children need a healthy diet to grow and develop properly. Special diets have been used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, commonly known as ADHD, but many are still being researched. Currently there is no specific diet for children with ADHD, but there is anecdotal evidence that limiting certain foods can help prevent symptoms of ADHD and manage the disorder.
Fresh Foods
The healthiest diet for a child with ADHD is rich in nutrient-dense foods like fruits, vegetables, grains and healthy fats, says the Mayo Clinic. Lean proteins and low-fat dairy products also provide vitamins, minerals and nutrients that a child needs to be healthy and develop physically and cognitively. The Mayo Clinic recommends limiting sugary and processed foods; these tend to be high in calories and fat but offer few essential nutrients.
Non-Salicylate Foods
Salicylate is a naturally occurring chemical in fruits and vegetables. Foods that contain salicylates are eliminated on the Feingold diet, the best-known diet used to treat ADHD. According to the Center for Science in the Public Interest, or CSPI, non-salicylate fruits and vegetables are bananas, melons, grapefruits, kiwis, lemons, mangos, papayas, pears, pineapples, beans, beets, bean sprouts, broccoli, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, celery, kale, lettuce, lentils, mushrooms, onions, peas, potatoes, spinach, squash, corn, sweet potatoes and zucchini. Foods high in salicylates should be avoided and include apples, apricots, tomatoes, berries, cherries, cucumbers, grapes, nectarines, oranges, peaches, peppers, plums and tangerines.
Additive-Free Foods
Food additives refer to artificial colorings, preservatives and flavorings. According to the Mayo Clinic, food additives do not cause ADHD, but may worsen hyperactivity. Food additives are generally used in processed and commercially prepared foods. Additive-free foods include fresh fruits, vegetables, grains, meat, fish, eggs and dairy products. The best way to tell if a food contains additives is to read food labels and ingredient lists.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, omega-3 fatty acids, an essential fatty acid, support normal brain function and may benefit children with ADHD. Omega-3 fatty acids are in fish and fish oil, walnuts, flaxseed, soybean and canola oil, Brussels sprouts, kale and spinach.
References
- Center for Science in the Public Interest: A Parent's Guide to Diet, ADHD and Behavior
- Center for Science in the Public Interest: Food Additives
- Harvard School of Public Health: Omega-3 Fatty Acids
- Mayo Clinic: Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in Children
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
