Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, is often diagnosed in children. However, many parents do not want to give their children medication and seek alternative treatments. Diet can help eliminate any possible allergies and promote brain health. Behavioral therapy can help manage behavior problems and help children perform better in school. By using these different methods, ADHD symptoms can be controlled without the use of pharmaceuticals.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for brain function and have been used in clinical studies of ADHD. In a study done by Arnold et al. in the "Journal of Child Adolescent Psychopharmacology," children who had lower levels of Omega-3 fatty acids in their system had more learning and memory problems. Early research suggests that giving children with ADHD Omega-3 rich foods, such as fish, can improve their behavior and learning abilities.
Identifying Allergies
Often, allergies are misdiagnosed as ADHD. Before starting any treatment options, check to see if food allergies may be the culprit. For two weeks, eliminate the following foods from the diet: junk food, fruit juices, sugar, chocolate, NutraSweet, processed meats, fried foods, food coloring and fish. Even though fish is great for brain health, you should make sure that your child is not allergic. After the two weeks, reintroduce each of these foods in high quantities and note if your child exhibits any symptoms.
Behavioral Therapy
Dr. Dean Edell, author of the article "ADHD Without Drugs" recommends that "instead of immediately prescribing drugs, physicians should recommend to parents a sequential approach--behavioral therapy first and then medication if needed." Behavioral therapy works on improving the child's behavior through academic performance, relationships and skill development. The therapy teaches the child consequences to bad behavior, and Dr. Edell suggests that behavioral therapy also helps both parents and teachers.
References
- Arnold LE, Kleykamp D, Votolato N, Gibson RA, Horrocks L, "Potential link between dietary intake of fatty acid and behavior: pilot exploration of serum lipids in attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder", J Child Adolesc Psychopharmacol. 1994
- ADHD diet
- ADHD Without Drugs
