Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, presents as hyperactivity, problems with focus and impulsive behavior, according to MayoClinic.com. Millions of children have ADHD, and the condition may also affect adults. This condition may result in poor performance in school or at work. There are foods you or child can eat to combat the symptoms of ADHD. While there is no scientific evidence to prove diet correlates to ADHD, some studies indicate it can make a difference.
Dairy Foods
The Center for Unhindered Living website says that calcium and magnesium deficiencies may cause ADHD, and MIT's Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory website also points to a calcium deficiency as a cause. Eating dairy, like milk and cheese, may reduce symptoms of the condition by providing these two nutrients. ADHD may also result from vitamin D, a vitamin commonly found in dairy products. Both calcium and Vitamin D plays a role in brain function, and calcium impacts bone growth.
Fish
If you or your child has ADHD, including fish in the diet may be beneficial. Fish is rich in essential fatty acids, which help the brain process information and optimize brain functions. Fish oil capsules may also improve ADHD symptoms in you or your child, according to ADDitude magazine. Children who take fish oil capsules show improvement in behavior, reading and spelling, although no scientific proof exists to confirm the effectiveness of eating fish to combat symptoms of ADHD.
Peanut Butter
Eating foods high in protein, like peanut butter, may combat symptoms associated with ADHD. Eating peanut butter and other high protein foods for breakfast, in particular, may offer benefits to you or your child, according to ADDitude magazine. Children with ADHD perform better on tests when they eat high protein breakfasts. Nutritionists recommend natural peanut butter on whole-grain bread, with a small amount of all-fruit jam.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Attention-deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in Children
- Center for Unhindered Living: Causes of ADD/ADHD
- MIT's Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory: Is ADHD Caused by Insufficient Dietary Fat?
- ADDitude: Alternative ADHD Treatment: Fish Oil
- ADDitude: Benefits of Breakfast: ADHD and Nutrition
