ADD -- attention deficit disorder - and ADHA -- attention deficit hyperactivity disorder -- affect between 3 and 5 percent of children in the United States. Some health practitioners believe that adjusting the diet can help relieve some of the symptoms of ADD.
Symptoms
ADD and ADHD is increasingly common childhood disorder. There are three sub categories of this illness. The first occurs when the patient displays mostly hyperactive impulses, the second occurs when the patient is mostly inattentive and the third occurs when the patient displays a combination of the two. Though there is currently no cure, symptoms may be relieved with medication, therapy and dietary changes.
Protein
Although an inadequate diet and poor eating habits are not the cause of ADD, protein may be particularly important. This is because protein triggers neurotransmitters in the brain that trigger alertness. People with ADD and ADHD can benefit by having a breakfast and lunch that is rich in protein. Children require 24 to 30 g of protein per day, depending on their age and adults require 45-70 g. You can obtain seven grams of protein form one egg, one cup of milk or 1 oz of meat or cheese.
Omega-3 fatty Acids
Other key nutrients to help stave or attention deficit disorders are oega-3 fatty acids. The body uses fatty acids to manufacture nerve and brain tissue. They are vital for mental functions, proper growth and brain development. The body cannot produce omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids so they must be obtained from food. Although the typical western diet includes an over-abundance of omega-6 fatty acids, it rarely includes sufficient omega-3 fatty acids. <any learning specialists have concluded that there is a link between ADD and omega-3 deficiency. Omega-3 fatty acids are found in salmon, flax seeds, dish oil supplements, nut oils and tuna
Allergies
Some nutritionists believe that food allergies can cause ADD and ADHD-like behavior in children. They recommend eliminating certain foods from your child's diet including dairy products, junk food, yellow food, fruit juices, fried food, processed sugar, MSG, chocolate, fish and food colorings. It is recommended that after two weeks you start to reintroduce these foods every few days to see if symptoms recur. If they do they should be eliminated completely.
