Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a common disorder seen both in children and adults. Generally, treatment involves administration of prescription medications, including stimulants. These provide relief of symptoms such as impulsivity and hyperactivity. However, some individuals experience side effects such as an upset stomach. Certain vitamin supplements appear to provide some benefit for symptom management, with less likelihood of an individual reacting adversely to the ingredients. In some cases, both medication and vitamin administration may help relieve symptoms of ADHD.
Step 1
Take a daily fish-oil supplement that contains both omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. A 2005 paper written by Dr. Alex Richardson and published in "The Nutrition Practitioner" points out that the decline of these nutrients correlates with the significant increase in the diagnosis of disorders such as ADHD and dyslexia. Dr. Richardson continues to explain that research literature supports the assumption that fatty acid deficiencies can contribute to many of the symptoms of these disorders. Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids also provide cardiovascular protection in both children and adults.
Step 2
Take 200 mg of magnesium every day. According to the University of Maryland, a magnesium deficiency can cause impaired attention and cognitive problems. Additionally, a 2004 study published in the "Journal of the American College of Nutrition" discovered that hyperactive children who received a combination of supplemental magnesium and vitamin B6 all had significantly lower levels of hyperactive behavior.
Step 3
Take 100 mg of vitamin B6, also known as pyridoxine, every day. The University of Maryland explains that vitamin B6 is necessary for the brain to manufacture neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine. These neurotransmitters are the ones that are specifically affected in children who have ADHD. The 2004 study published in the "Journal of the American College of Nutrition" found that administration of vitamin B6 with magnesium produced significant behavioral improvement in children with hyperactivity.
Step 4
Take 35 mg of zinc daily. "BMC Psychiatry" found children with ADHD who were administered both zinc and a stimulant medication showed significant improvement in symptoms of ADHD. Additionally, zinc is necessary for the body to regulate brain chemicals that affect behavior, the University of Maryland explains. Zinc should not be taken in high dosages, because it can be toxic. Individuals who have a sensitive digestive system should take zinc with food.
Step 5
Take an amino acid supplement that contains L-carnitine, which helps your body manufacture energy. The University of Maryland cites a 2002 study published in "Prostaglandins, Leukotrienes, and Essential Fatty Acids" that found supplemental L-carnitine to be effective in decreasing symptoms of ADHD in boys. The researchers added that studies haven't been performed to assess the safety of L-carnitine supplementation in children, so speak with your doctor before using this supplement.
References
- National Institute of Mental Health: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
- ADDitude: Alternative ADHD Treatment: Fish Oil
- Treating Autism: Omega-3 Fatty Acids for Child Behaviour, Learning and Mood: ADHD, Dyslexia, Dyspraxia, Autism and Related Conditions
- Journal of the American College of Nutrition: Magnesium VitB6 Intake Reduces Central Nervous System Hyperexcitability in Children
- BMC Psychiatry: Ethnicity, Sleep, Mood, and Illumination in Postmenopausal Women
