How to Treat Children With ADHD
Overview
Children diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder can be treated with two types of interventions: nonmedical and medical treatment. Nonmedical treatment can vary. Two common forms of nonmedical treatment that are clinically researched and documented are nutritional-dietary treatment and behavioral therapy. Medical intervention is in the form of prescriptions that treat the symptoms of ADHD.
Step 1
Change diet. Some children diagnosed with ADHD seem to respond well to a diet rich in protein, low in carbohydrates and sugar free. The premise of this nutritional treatment is that there are dietary risk factors for children diagnosed with ADHD: low protein with high carbohydrate diets, food allergens or additives, nutritional deficiencies, such as the lack of essential fatty acids and vitamin or mineral deficiency, detection of heavy metal toxicity and other environmental toxins and intestinal dysfunction or thyroid disorders.
Step 2
Get an examination. A physical exam by a medical doctor will help in evaluating the appropriateness of a nutritional therapy program for a child diagnosed with ADHD.
Step 3
Document your child's response to eating certain types of foods: sugar vs.sugar-free food, protein versus carbohydrate foods and dairy versus nondairy. Providing documentation before and after the child's appointment will help you and your physician come to an appropriate treatment plan for your child.
Tips and Warnings
- If you suspect your child may have ADHD talk with his teacher, caregiver or other adult figure who is familiar with your child's behavior. Consult with your physician for a complete evaluation and possible diagnosis.
- Certain medications have side effects. Discuss with your doctor the right prescription for your child and the possible side effects.
Things You'll Need
- School reports Medical evaluations including physical and psychological reports List of any known food allergies List of current and previously taken medication.
About this Author
Michelle Vermillion Lawrence holds a Masters in Counseling Psychology. She has worked as a therapist helping children, adolescents and families in individual, group and support therapy. She is a mother of two, a marathon runner and avid writer. She has written on numerous topics, from athletics to mental health.
Member Comments
by Cheysie on July 15, 2009 at 4:40 PM
How do they test for these toxins? Is it through blood work what is the name of the test? thank you