Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, also known as ADD, is a disorder characterized by inattentiveness, impulsivity and/or hyperactivity. Of the three types of ADHD -- predominantly inattentive, predominantly hyperactive and combined hyperactivity and inattentiveness, most children with the disorder have the combined symptom sub-type, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. In addition to medications and therapy, a healthy diet, limited in certain foods may improve symptoms in children and adults.
Colorful Processed Foods
Colorful processed foods, such as hard candies, jelly beans, fruit punch, frosting and frozen desserts, typically contain significant amounts of artificial additives that may worsen ADHD symptoms. Avoid foods containing FD&C Yellow No. 6, D&C Yellow No. 10, FD&C Yellow No. 5, FD&C Red No.40 and sodium benzoate to help reduce hyperactivity. For heightened wellness benefits, try replacing artificially colored foods with colorful fresh foods, such as fresh or frozen berries and natural fruit smoothies.
Added Sugars
Added sugars are ingredients that add sweet flavor and calories but few nutrients to foods. Though research findings regarding the link between sugar consumption and ADHD are mixed, sugary foods may worsen symptoms, such as hyperactivity and restlessness, according to an article published in "ADDitude" in 2010. While omitting sugar completely isn't necessary, try limiting heavily sweetened foods and beverages, such as candy, milk chocolate, frosting, pancake syrup, commercially-prepared cakes, cookies, pastries and regular soft drinks. Opt for nutritious whole foods, such as whole grains, baked sweet potatoes and unsweetened herbal tea, more often. When you do consume sweets, pairing them with foods that have a milder impact on your blood sugar levels, such as low-fat milk or yogurt, may help prevent energy and mood imbalances.
Fatty Meats
Fatty meats, such as organ meats, bacon, sausage, pork ribs, steak and lamb, contribute rich amounts of saturated fat to your diet. In addition to increasing your risk for cholesterol problems, obesity and heart disease, consuming fatty meats in excess leaves less room for potentially helpful foods. Cold-water fish, for example, provide omega-3 fatty acids -- healthy fats important for brain function and improved ADHD symptoms, according to "The ADD and ADHD Cure" by Jay Gordon and Jennifer Chang. For best results, choose salmon, albacore tuna, herring, halibut, lake trout, flounder, sardines and mackerel over high-fat meats most often.
Enriched Flour
Enriched flour, unlike the whole grains it derives from, contains little fiber, protein, vitamins or minerals. As a result, foods based upon enriched flour, such as white bread, enriched pasta and pretzels, may disrupt blood sugar and energy levels and worsen ADHD symptoms. For this reason, Gordon and Chang recommend swapping enriched flour products out for complex carbohydrates, such as whole grains and vegetables. When purchasing prepared foods, avoid those that list enriched flour as a main ingredient. Replacing enriched flour with whole grain flour in baked goods and opting for flour-less foods, such as brown rice and oatmeal, may also help.
References
- MayoClinic.com: ADHD Diet: Do Food Additives Cause Hyperactivity?
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder -- Other Treatments
- "The ADD and ADHD Cure: The Natural Way to Treat Hyperactivity and Refocus Your Child"; Jay Gordon and Jennifer Chang; 2008
- "ADDitude"; The Sugar Wars: Using Diet to Treat ADHD Symptoms in Children; Laura Stevens; 2010
- National Institute of Mental Health: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
