Attention deficit disorder, or ADD -- also known as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder -- is a developmental disorder that affects school-aged children and can persist into adulthood. This disorder is marked by inattentiveness, hyperactivity and impulsivity. Symptoms include failing to pay attention to details, difficulty maintaining attention on tasks, failure to complete tasks, difficulty with organization, distraction, forgetfulness, fidgeting, restlessness and talking frequently. Consuming a well-balanced, nutrient-rich diet is important to maintain a healthy body and may help prevent or treat symptoms of ADD.
Foods Rich In Vitamin B-6
Vitamin B-6 is an essential nutrient for your body that may play a role in ADD. Vitamin B-6 is required to produce and use brain chemicals, including serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine. These chemicals play a role in mood and behavior regulation and are affected in children with ADD. Therefore, a deficiency in this vitamin may be linked to the occurrence of ADD symptoms. The University of Maryland Medical Center says research has been inconclusive about an association between B-6 and ADD. Consult your doctor before taking supplements. You can boost your intake of this vitamin by consuming potatoes, bananas, garbanzo beans, chicken, roast beef, rainbow trout, oatmeal, sunflower seeds and walnuts.
Foods Rich In Essential Fatty Acids
Essential fatty acids are necessary for a healthy body, but your body does not produce them. Therefore, you must obtain these fats from your diet. According to UMMC, these fats are necessary for normal brain function and may be helpful in treating ADD. Research for a conncection between essential fatty acids and ADD is inconclusive and ongoing. Good sources of the essential fat omega-6 include vegetable oils, such as soybean oil and canola oil. Good sources of omega-3, another type of essential fat, include salmon, sardines, mackerel, walnuts, flaxseed and flaxseed oil. Talk to your doctor before supplementing with these fats to determine a beneficial dose.
Foods Rich In Magnesium
Magnesium may play a helpful role in treating ADD. UMMC says children with ADD may be displaying symptoms of a magnesium deficiency. Common symptoms of s deficiency include mental confusion, reduced attention span and increased irritability. An effective dose to treat ADD may be 200 mg a day, according to UMMC. You can find this mineral in many foods, including legumes, whole grains, tofu, green leafy vegetables, Brazil nuts, almonds, blackstrap molasses, pumpkin seeds, beet greens, bananas and oatmeal.
Food Additives and ADD
Food additives include colorings and preservatives added to foods to enhance flavor and increase shelf life. According to MayoClinic.com, there is no evidence additives can cause ADD, but research does indicate they may aggravate symptoms of hyperactivity in children. If you notice any specific additives or other foods having an effect on ADD symptoms, try eliminating that food and monitor changes in behaviors. Consult your doctor before putting your child or yourself on a restricted diet. If you eliminate too many foods, you may be at risk for vitamin and mineral deficiencies.
