Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, often abbreviated as ADHD, is distinct from the usual rambunctiousness and occasional lapses of attention seen in children. Its symptoms include persistent and severe inattentiveness, impulsivity and hyperactivity. Left unchecked, these symptoms can continue into adulthood and wreak havoc with work and relationships. Some natural nutrition strategies may help. If you suspect that your child has ADHD, consult a qualified health care professional.
Natural Supplements for ADHD
Scientists have discovered correlations between ADHD and deficiencies in certain nutrients, according to an article in the journal "Nutrition News." Author Natalie Sinn states that studies have found that children with ADHD are more likely to have lower levels of zinc, omega-3 fatty acids, iron and magnesium in their bloodstreams than their non-ADHD peers. More research is needed to definitively determine whether supplements of these natural nutrients can ease ADHD symptoms, but they may be appropriate for some children. Ask your pediatrician if your child would benefit.
Cutting Down on Additives
In the 1970s, physician Benjamin Feingold began warning that artificial colors and flavors, as well as certain preservatives, might be responsible for hyperactivity and other behavioral problems in children. Although his contentions remain controversial, recent evidence supports his claim. An article in the medical journal "Lancet" describes a double-blind study in which children were given either a drink with food dyes, the preservative sodium benzoate, or both, or an identically appearing drink without the artificial ingredients. Those who received the drink with the artificial additives demonstrated significantly more hyperactive behavior. More research is needed to validate these results, but concerned parents can try cutting down on artificial ingredients to see if a behavior change results.
Elimination Diets
Children may have ADHD symptoms due to their own individual reactions to foods that may not cause problems for others. Elimination diets can be helpful for some children to identify these dietary triggers, according to an article published in "Clinical Pediatrics." In the first stage of an elimination diet, patients are allowed to eat only a few foods known to be unlikely to provoke ADHD symptoms. Foods are reintroduced into the diet one by one. If a reaction occurs, that food has been identified as an offender. Because the initial stages of elimination diets can be nutritionally imbalanced, undertake them under the supervision of a pediatrician or dietary professional.
Reducing Sugar
Ask any group of parents who have ever chaperoned a child's birthday party and you'll hear plenty of anecdotal reports that birthday cake, candy and other sugary treats make children hyperactive. However, according to the National Institute of Mental Health, most research studies do not support a connection between sugar and ADHD symptoms. NIMH describes double-blind studies in which children were divided into groups that were given either sugar or a sugar substitute, and then rated for ADHD symptoms. No behavioral or learning differences were noted between groups. However, if you suspect your child has behavioral reactions to sweets, try cutting down. Sugar has no nutritive value, and substituting fruit for candy is a healthy choice, even if your child's ADHD symptoms remain unaffected.
References
- "Clinical Pediatrics"; Dietary Sensitivities and ADHD Symptoms: Thirty-five Years of Research; L.J. Stevens et al; December 2010
- National Institute of Mental Health: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
- "Nutrition Reviews"; Nutritional and Dietary Influences on Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder; N. Sinn; October 2008
- "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
