Attention deficit disorder, or ADD, is a neurological disorder that can occur in children. It manifests as restlessness, an inability to concentrate, impulsivity and a loss of focus. Children with ADD may talk incessantly, go from one task to another, appearing to be bored. There are many theories as to the cause of ADD but no scientific proof. Researchers believe that neurotransmitters may be to blame. Dopamine, a neurotransmitter that plays a role in attention and concentration, is found to be abnormally low in children diagnosed with ADD, according to The Health Center website. Studies have also shown that children with ADD have lower levels of omega-3 in their blood, indicating that children with ADD may benefit from particular foods in their diet.
Fish
Fish is a main source of omega-3 fatty oils. According to the Attention Deficit Disorder Help Center website, the brain is made up of approximately 60 percent fats. It is the omega-3 fatty oils that are most abundant in the brain. Marcia Zimmerman, a clinical nutritionist, states on the MSN website that "an ADHD child experiences a miscommunication between brain cells." A child with ADD would benefit from a diet that includes fish since the right kind of fish helps the brain to fire properly. Because we cannot make these oils ourselves, we need an adequate intake for a balanced diet. Fatty, cold water fish such as salmon, tuna, cod or flounder are high in omega-3s.
Meat and Nuts
The building block of proteins, amino acids, help the production of neurotransmitters. Foods high in protein help the connection between brain cells. According to the article "5 Foods to Feed Your Child With ADHD and 5 to Avoid," children should eat small portions of protein throughout the day to help even out their energy. Foods high in protein include meat and nuts. Meat should be fresh and not highly processed as in sandwich meats. Meat also has vitamin B nutrients which have been shown to improve neural activity. Nuts are also a good source of magnesium, which helps to calm the nervous system as well as aid in protein synthesis.
Vegetables
Dark green, leafy vegetables pack a nutritional punch and especially so for children with ADD. They have B vitamins which help to reduce stress. According to the Attention Deficit Disorder Help Center website, a study conducted at Saint Joseph Hospital in Pennsylvania found that children with ADD had low serotonin levels. When the children were given a vitamin B6 supplement, serotonin levels increased significantly. Green vegetables are also high in magnesium, which helps to maintain normal muscle function and is involved in metabolizing energy. Some studies have shown a possible connection between low zinc levels and children with ADD. Green, leafy vegetables are a good source of zinc.
