Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, also is sometimes referred to as attention deficit disorder, or ADD. The condition is a mental disorder typically diagnosed in early childhood, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. ADHD is diagnosed in children who have short attention spans and who continuously act impulsively. Medication and behavioral therapy usually are advised by psychiatrists and pediatricians to treat the condition. Dietary restrictions typically are included in a treatment plan.
Step 1
Eliminate foods that typically are associated with increased energy and activity levels. According to the Mayo Clinic, even though there is very little scientific evidence that diet affects the treatment of ADHD, most doctors advise parents to decrease the consumption of foods containing sugar and caffeine.
Step 2
Reduce the number of foods that contain allergens commonly found in wheat, milk and egg. Limit consumption of foods that contain food coloring and preservatives.
Step 3
Provide children with a healthy diet complete with foods from the five major food groups. According to the National Institutes of Health, children with ADHD should eat foods high in fiber, such as whole grains found in bread and cereal, as well as fiber sources from fresh fruits and vegetables, and beans.
Step 4
Add servings of foods that contain omega-3 fatty acids such as fish, olive oil and flax seed. According to the Healing Center, supplements and special diets cannot replace traditional medication and therapy, but may help with the symptoms while keeping children generally healthy.
Step 5
Serve meals at the same time every day. Give healthy snacks at specific times of the day to help establish routines. Children with ADHD respond to schedules and parents are encouraged to stick closely to the routines.
Tips and Warnings
- While it is not proven that eliminating sugar cures ADHD, sugar-free diets that are high in protein and complex carbohydrates are healthier and tend to have a calming effect on the body, according to researchers at the Healing Center. Diets high in sugar and refined carbohydrates generally are known to contribute to malnutrition and blood sugar irregularities.
- Beware of products that claim to cure the symptoms created by ADHD. Natural and alternative medicines that contain high doses of various vitamins to treat the condition can be harmful to children, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Things You'll Need
- Omega-3 fatty acids
- Complex carbohydrates
- Protein
