Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder affects 4 to 6 percent of the U.S. population and is not limited to adults, according to the Attention Deficit Disorder Association. Children often show symptoms before the age of 7, and between one-half and two-thirds continue to display symptoms during adulthood, reports the association. Not all symptoms are overactive and hyperactive behaviors; additional symptoms include difficulty staying on task or concentrating in social situations. Medication and a variety of therapies are used to treat ADHD. Though diet and sugar are not linked to the disorder, the Feingold Association and the University of Maryland Medical Center, or UMMC, suggest diet as an alternative therapy for some patients.
Fish and Fish Oil
According to UMMC, some people with ADHD benefit with additional omega-3 fatty acids in their diets. Fish oil supplements are high in omega-3 fatty acids and contain both eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). UMMC recommends a fish oil supplement for adults with 180 mg of EPA and 120 mg of DHA; there is no established dose for children. Eating fish twice a week is also recommended by the American Heart Association to increase omega-3 fatty acids. Be sure to grill or bake fish, instead of frying, to keep your meal heart-healthy. Consume fish low in mercury, avoiding swordfish, shark and tilefish.
Salicylates-free Diet
A staple of the Feingold Association diet, a popular ADHD diet created in the 1970s, is to avoid salicylates. The chemical is commonly found in aspirin, but is also in other foods containing salicylates. The Feingold diet suggests ADHD patients avoid chili pepper, berries, tomatoes, strawberries, apples, cider, cloves, oranges, peaches and other foods. This diet is very strict and often considered difficult to implement for both children and adults due to the many restrictions. Controversy persists about its effects on ADHD symptoms and diet. Additional factors of the diet include avoiding artificial food additives, dyes and preservatives.
Plant-based Fatty Acids
You may increase your intake of omega-3 essential oils by cooking with olive or canola oils. Flaxseed is also high in the fatty acid. Include ground flaxseed in meals throughout the day. Sprinkle flaxseed into your breakfast cereal or oatmeal or over your lunch salad, or mix it into burritos and tacos for dinner. Walnuts and other nuts also contain high amounts of essential oils, which may decrease ADHD symptoms. Nuts are high in calories, however, so only grab a handful.
