Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder -- ADHD -- affects children, adolescents and adults. The symptoms include staying focused; hyperactivity, seen as fidgeting or the inability to sit still; and impulsiveness, such as blurting out inappropriate comments or being impatient. Although many factors contribute to ADHD in kids, including genetics, brain injuries and diets, taking certain vitamins and dietary supplements can help enhance brain functions to promote attentiveness.
Folic Acid
Folic acid describes the synthetic form of folate, also known as vitamin B9. The body needs folic acid to produce and maintain new cells, an important function in the growing bodies of children. Folic acid also helps produce normal red blood cells which carry oxygen to all the cells of the body including those in the brain. In addition, folic acid plays a role in the synthesis of serotonin -- a neurotransmitter in the brain -- which can help modify mood, according to a study published by John Fernstrom in the June 2000 issue of "The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition." Increasing folate levels may therefore help kids with Attention Deficit Disorder focus and modify their impulsive behavior. Foods rich in folate include green leafy vegetables such as spinach, citrus fruits and dried beans and peas, the National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements states. In addition to dietary sources of folate, folic acid vitamin supplements can help boost the level of folic acid in the blood.
Other B Vitamins
Other vitamins classified as B vitamins can also help enhance brain function that can provide benefits to kids with ADHD. Vitamin B12 helps support proper red blood cell production and neurological function. A B12 deficiency can cause confusion, depression and poor memory, as described by the National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements. Taking B12 supplements boosts brain function that can help kids with ADHD improve their focus and attention. The body needs vitamin B6 for the formation of hemoglobin -- a protein in red blood cells that binds and carries oxygen. Without sufficient B6 the amount of circulating oxygen decreases, causing depression, confusion and convulsions. Taking vitamin B6 supplements supports the function of the nerves in the brain which can help kids with ADHD control their behavior.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Although not one of the essential vitamins, omega-3 fatty acids found in the oils of fatty fish is an essential nutrient. Consuming adequate amounts of omega-3 fatty acids help support healthy brain functions, the University of Maryland Medical Center reports. Dietary sources of omega-3 fatty acids include fatty fish such as salmon, tuna and herring. For those who don't like fish, supplements known as fish-oil pills provide the essential omega-3 fatty acids. The University of Maryland Medical Center reports that kids with ADHD have low levels of some of the omega-3 fatty acids. Taking supplements may help improve their thinking skills, according to MedLinePlus.
References
- National Institutes of Mental Health: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
- The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition: Can Nutrient Supplements Modify Brain Function?
- National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements: Folate
- National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements: Vitamin B12
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Omega-3 Fatty Acids
- MedLinePlus: Fish Oil
