Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, is a common childhood illness characterized by hyperactivity, impulsivity and inattention. According to the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, a formal ADHD diagnosis requires that these behaviors appear before the age of 7, persist for at least six months and cause problems in at least two areas of life. Some supplements may help. Use them under the supervision of a qualified health-care practitioner.
Mineral Supplements
A number of research studies have uncovered a link between deficiencies in certain nutrients and ADHD symptoms, according to an article by Natalie Sinn, research fellow at the University of South Australia. Low bloodstream levels of the mineral zinc, essential to normal brain functioning, are correlated not only with ADHD but also with ADHD severity. Iron deficiencies, long known to be associated with poor cognitive development, are more frequent in children with ADHD than in their peers. Low magnesium levels are also associated with ADHD. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, some researchers have suggested that the irritability, decreased attention span and mental confusion associated with ADHD may reflect an underlying magnesium deficiency. Sinn describes preliminary trials with mineral supplements that led to improvements in ADHD-associated behavior, though more research is needed.
Fish Oil Supplements
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for normal brain development and functioning. Since the body cannot synthesize them, they must be obtained through the diet. Many people do not get enough. Fatty fish like salmon, mackerel and herring are among the best sources of omega-3s, but fish oil supplements are now widely available and can be a substitute for non-fish eaters. An article in the "International Review of Psychiatry" states that small research studies have indicated that fish oil supplements may ease ADHD symptoms and boost academic achievement. The author states that fish oil supplements should not be considered as a primary treatment for ADHD, but that they represent a promising approach given their safety profile and overall health benefits.
Pine Bark Extract
An extract made from the bark of a pine tree that grows along the coast of France may be useful in alleviating ADHD symptoms. A study reported in "European Child and Adolescent Psychiatry" found that children who received pine bark extract for a month showed a significant decrease in hyperactivity, better hand-eye coordination and improved attention and concentration. The children suffered a relapse in symptoms one month after the end of treatment. Children who received an identically appearing placebo showed no benefit. Larger studies are necessary before pine bark extract can be widely recommended for ADHD.
Herbal Supplements
Nutrition consultant Phyllis Balch writes in "Prescription for Nutritional Healing" that ginkgo biloba, ginseng, bacopa and valerian root extract may all be beneficial herbal supplements for ADHD. Ginkgo biloba is helpful for focus and brain function. Ginseng is often used to enhance memory. Bacopa is an Ayurvedic herb that is used as a brain tonic and cognitive enhancer, and valerian root has calming properties that may decrease hyperactivity. Balch says that the dosages recommended on these supplements' labels should be adjusted for age. Consult a qualified health-care provider about the appropriate dosages for your child.
References
- American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry: ADHD -- A Guide for Families
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis Balch; 2006
- "Nutrition Reviews"; Nutritional and Dietary Influences on Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder; N. Sinn; October 2008
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
- "International Review of Psychiatry"; Omega-3 Fatty Acids in ADHD and Related Neurodevelopmental Disorders; A.J. Richardson; April 2006
- "European Child and Adolescent Psychiatry"; Treatment of ADHD with French Maritime Pine Bark Extract, Pycnogenol; J. Trebaticka et al; September 2006
