Also known as attention deficit disorder, ADD is a condition that affects your ability to concentrate, which can make it difficult to maintain a relationship, occupation or even everyday life, according to Help Guide. In addition to medications for managing ADD, you also can use lifestyle changes such as diet to better control ADD symptoms.
Protein Sources
Because it keeps you feeling full and contributes to growth and muscle function, protein often is the building block of most meals. Lean sources of protein also contribute to the adult ADD brain, according to ADDitude magazine. Protein helps to regulate blood sugar surges and encourages the brain to make neurotransmitters, which improve the way your body and brain communicate. Recommendations include lean sources of beef, pork, poultry, fish, eggs, beans, nuts and soy products. Fish also contain omega-3 fatty acids, which can help adults with ADD to better concentrate. Starting with a lean protein source at breakfast can help you improve your focus throughout the day.
Vegetables and Fruits
Vegetables contain a number of nutrients associated with improving ADD symptoms, according to ADDitude magazine. For example, spinach is a significant source of iron. Iron has been associated with reducing the severity of ADD symptoms. Fruits and vegetables in general are higher in fiber, which means they are more slowly digested by the body. Organic can be best for those with adult ADD because pesticides or other items used to grow the foods may exacerbate ADD symptoms, according to One ADD Place. Fruits can be mixed with protein powder and milk to create a smoothie that is packed with nutrients and lean protein.
Carbohydrates
Refined carbohydrates can cause your blood sugar to spike because your body quickly converts them to sugar, according to the website Adult Child ADD ADHD. This can make an adult with ADD feel extremely energetic and then cause a "crash" that increases the difficulty in concentrating. For this reason, you should restrict white rice, white bread and other foods made with white flour in favor of whole-wheat products. These take longer for the body to break down. Good options include brown rice, whole-wheat bread and beans.
Foods to Avoid
Foods that are most problematic for people with ADD are those that cause blood sugar spikes, according to Adult Child ADD ADHD. These foods include those high in sugar, such as brownies, cookies, candy and sodas. Although blood sugar spikes may give you momentary energy, they can be problematic in those with ADD whose mood levels can be easily affected. When blood sugar levels crash, you may have even greater difficult in concentrating. You may be surprised to find that fruit juices also may be high in sugar; replace these with real fruits.
