ADHD-like symptoms have significantly increased in the United States. According to Dr. Alex Richardson, many children are said to have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, without ever receiving an official diagnosis. Some studies estimate that 8 to 10 percent of all children suffer from ADHD, says Naturally Savvy. The disorder is defined by difficulty focusing, hyperactivity, confusion and forgetfulness. While medications, such as Ritalin, can be extremely beneficial in treating ADHD, dietary changes can provide dramatic positive changes in children as well.
Limit Refined Sugars
Sugar is very controversial when it comes to its role in ADHD. While several studies discount the link between ADHD and refined sugars found in candy, baked goods, chocolate and breads, many parents can confirm that sugar does cause ADHD symptoms, like hyperactivity, in their children. Dr. Richardson quotes specific examples of children whose behavior clearly changed after consuming sugary treats. Sugar has a negative effect on the digestive system, which can cause changes to a child's mood and behavior. By eliminating refined sugar from a child's diet for two weeks, parents can determine for themselves whether sugar plays into their child's ADHD.
Increase Omega-3 Fats
Dr. Richardson completed a study in which he tested the blood concentration of omega-3 fats in 96 boys. Children who had the lowest levels of omega-3s also suffered from hyperactive behavior, anxiety, temper tantrums and sleep disorders. When school-aged children were given an omega-3 supplement containing fish oils, both teachers and parents noticed a remarkable difference in the children's behavior.
Eat Every Three to Four Hours
In his practice, Dr. William Sears has noticed that children's focus and behavior deteriorates in the mid-morning and mid-afternoon. As a result, he created "nibble trays" full of healthy snacks to encourage children to eat during the morning and afternoon to prevent blood sugar crashes. By limiting refined sugars and encouraging children to snack on healthy items, such as fresh fruit, vegetables and whole grains, behavioral and ADHD symptoms may decrease.
Always Eat Breakfast
Not only does it make a difference whether children eat breakfast, what they eat can also directly impact their mood. Dr. Sears reports that children who do not eat breakfast can be less attentive and more sluggish, and can make lower grades. The key to increased focus and concentration in the classroom is a breakfast rich in complex carbohydrates and protein. Complex carbohydrates, such as oats, quinoa and brown rice, burn at a slower rate in our body, so we feel full for a longer amount of time. Protein helps prevent a blood sugar crash, which can lead to ADHD symptoms, like lack of focus, irritability and mood swings.
References
- Naturally Savvy: ADHD & Diet
- National Institute of Mental Health: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
- askdrsears.com: Brain Foods
- "They Are What You Feed Them"; Alex Richardson, M.D.; 2006
