Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, causes hyper and impulsive behavior, which often gets in the way of a child's ability to perform well in school and lead a harmonious home life. If your child experiences symptoms of ADHD, the foods you do and do not feed him may make a difference in the reduction of negative behaviors. John F. Taylor reports in his book "The Survival Guide for Kids with ADD or ADHD" that changing your child's diet can bring relief of symptoms as well as encourage more positive and appropriate behaviors.
Whole Grain Cereal
A good breakfast is essential for your child if she has symptoms of ADHD. Sugary breakfast cereals, as well as other sugary breakfast foods such as donuts and toaster pastries, get in the way of your child's ability to focus on her morning tasks. Whole-grain cereals that contain very little sugar will give your child a burst of energy that lasts for several hours so she is more likely to concentrate. Whole-wheat crackers and oatmeal have similar effects.
Olive Oil
Oils with healthy unsaturated fats, such as olive oil, can help your child overcome his ADHD symptoms by allowing the brain to work more efficiently. Saturated fats are particularly damaging for children with ADHD because they cause the brain to slow down, making it even more difficult to concentrate and focus on required tasks. Replacing the saturated fats found in fast food, margarine and potato chips with healthier olive oil may help your child's brain function more quickly and effectively. Saute your child's favorite vegetables in olive oil or replace butter with olive oil on toast or when making a grilled cheese sandwich.
Fruits and Vegetables
Whole foods without additives are more likely to result in positive behavioral changes in your ADHD-diagnosed child. Foods such as fruit snacks and fruit-flavored drinks often contain added dyes that have been linked to an exacerbation of ADHD symptoms in some children. Eliminating these types of foods from your child's diet may bring a relief of impulsive and hyperactive behavior. Replace them with fresh fruits and vegetables, such as sweet potatoes, broccoli, carrots, apples, bananas, pears, pineapple and melon, because they will provide healthy carbohydrates as well as several vitamins that may reduce symptoms.
References
- "The Survival Guide for Kids with ADD or ADHD"; John F. Taylor; 2009
- "Overcoming ADHD Without Medication: A Parent's and Educator's Guidebook"; Association for Youth Children and Nature and the Association for Youth Children and Natural Psychology; 2009
