Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, also known as ADHD, is a chronic condition commonly associated with inattention, impulsivity and hyperactivity. According to MayoClinic.com, people with ADHD may struggle with low self-esteem, dysfunctional relationships and poor academic performance. ADHD may be caused by brain structure and function abnormalities, genetics or exposure to toxins. Treatment typically consists of psychological counseling, medication and avoiding foods that can trigger this condition. Being aware of possible food triggers can reduce ADHD symptoms and encourage healthy, active and successful individuals.
Processed Foods
If you have ADHD, avoid commercially processed foods such as frozen pizza, canned soups, frozen fish sticks, packaged cookies and cakes, bacon, sausages and box meals as they can exacerbate ADHD symptoms. According to Susan L. Buttross, author of the book "Understanding Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder," processed foods are loaded with additives such as preservatives, artificial flavorings and dyes, which can increase hyperactivity and decrease concentration in people with ADHD. If processed foods trigger your ADHD, try switching to organic foods that do not contain artificial additives.
Dairy Products
Dairy products can trigger ADHD in people who are hypersensitive to milk products. Dairy products such as milk, cheese, yogurt and ice cream can cause a loss of concentration, decreased focus and physical and mental fatigue, if you have an allergy or sensitivity to milk products. Joel T. Nigg, author of the book "What Causes ADHD?: Understanding What Goes Wrong and Why," recommends that people with ADHD remove dairy products from their diet for approximately six to eight weeks to see if their ADHD symptoms improve. If dairy products trigger your ADHD, replace them with foods made with soy, almond or rice milk.
Sugar
A diet high in sugar can cause your ADHD to flare. According to Alan Gaby and Schuyler Lininger, authors of the book "Natural Pharmacy: Complete A-Z Reference to Alternative Treatments for Common Health Conditions," sugar strips your body of the vitamins, enzymes and minerals needed to stabilize your mood and behavior. Gaby and Lininger further state that sugary foods and drinks can cause fluctuations in your blood sugar level, which can result in hyperactivity, restlessness, lack of concentration, irritability and impulsivity. If sugar is one of your trigger foods, it is also important to avoid simple carbohydrates because they convert into sugar in your digestive system. Reduce your ADHD symptoms by following a sugar-free diet.
Mercury-based Fish
If you have ADHD, limit or avoid mercury-based fish because they can trigger ADHD. According to Michael Zimmermann, author of the book "Burgerstein's Handbook of Nutrition: Micronutrients in the Prevention and Therapy of Disease," fish such as shark, swordfish, mackerel, grouper and marlin contain high levels of mercury, a heavy metal that can decrease focus and impair concentration in people who have a sensitivity or allergy to toxins such as mercury. If consuming mercury-based fish intensifies your ADHD symptoms, avoid these fish or switch to fish low in mercury such as lobster, salmon, sardines, shrimp, flounder and catfish.
Caffeine
Avoid or limit your consumption of caffeinated foods and drinks because they can cause ADHD symptoms. According to authors Gaby and Lininger, foods and beverages such as milk chocolate, coffee, black tea and cola contain large amounts of caffeine, a natural stimulant that can trigger ADHD symptoms such as impulsivity and hyperactivity. If caffeine causes ADHD symptoms, try herbal tea, decaffeinated coffee, white chocolate and caffeine-free sodas.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in Children
- "What Causes ADHD?: Understanding What Goes Wrong and Why"; Joel T. Nigg; 2006
- "Understanding Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder"; Susan L. Buttross; 2007
- "Natural Pharmacy: Complete A-Z Reference to Alternative Treatments for Common Health Conditions"; Alan R. Gaby and Schuyler W. Lininger; 2006
- "Burgerstein's Handbook of Nutrition: Micronutrients in the Prevention and Therapy of Disease"; Michael Zimmermann; 2001
