Occasional impulsivity, poor concentration and hyperactivity do not necessarily call for treatment. They are part of the normal behavioral spectrum of childhood. However, when these behaviors are persistent or severe, they may be signs of a disorder. Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, has a neurological basis. It can be treated, but presently has no cure. Nutritional therapies, however, may help. Consult a qualified health-care professional for more information about nutrition for ADHD.
Reducing Food Additives
Physician Benjamin Feingold first publicly linked food additives to ADHD in the late 1960s. The medical community long rejected that idea as unscientific. However, a study published in the prestigious medical journal "Lancet" has caused many to reconsider. In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, artificial colors, a sodium benzoate preservative or both caused a statistically significant increase in hyperactivity in children. Since these food additives do not add nutritive value to foods, try eliminating them from your child's diet and see if ADHD symptoms decrease.
Adding Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are necessary for healthy brain function. They are naturally abundant in oily fish, including herring, salmon and mackerel. In the book "Nutritional and Herbal Therapies for Children and Adolescents," Monmouth University professor George Kapalka writes that omega-3 fatty acid supplements are likely to be helpful for ADHD symptoms. Although evidence of benefit in ADHD patients is only now emerging, omega-3 fatty acids help stabilize mood and improve symptoms of depression. Fish oil supplements are generally well tolerated, but use them under the supervision of a qualified health-care practitioner.
Boosting Vitamin and Mineral Intake
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, the symptoms of magnesium deficiency are remarkably similar to the symptoms of ADHD, leading some researchers to propose that ADHD symptoms may be a result of inadequate magnesium intake. Zinc is another mineral that may be deficient in those with ADHD. This mineral regulates the activity of neurotramitters, fatty acids and melatonin, all of which are associated with mood and behavior. UMMC states that vitamin B-6 may also play a role in ADHD. It is necessary for the synthesis of neurotransmitters. A good multivitamin will contain adequate supplies of these nutrients. Overdoses may be dangerous, however, so consult a health-care practitioner for more advice on vitamins and minerals for ADHD.
Avoiding Sugar
The belief that excess sugar leads to symptoms of ADHD, especially hyperactivity, is widespread. However, this belief has not been borne out by scientific research, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. In a clinical study, children were given sugar, and their behaviors were analyzed. The children did not display differences in behavior or learning capabilities when compared with children given a sugar substitute. Still, each child is different. If sugary foods seem to worsen your child's ADHD symptoms, try reducing them in favor of fruits and other healthy choices.
References
- "Lancet"; Food Additives and Hyperactive Behavior in 3-Year-Old and 8/9-Year-Old Children in the Community; D. McCann, et al.; November 2007
- "Nutritional and Herbal Therapies for Children and Adolescents"; George M. Kapalka; 2010
- UMMC: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
- FDA: Dietary Supplements
- NIMH: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
