Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, is a behavioral disorder that affects people of all ages. However, according to "Human Biochemistry and Disease," it is more common in children, with about 10 percent of American kids affected. Boys are three times more likely to be diagnosed than girls. Children with ADHD have excessive energy, short attention spans and trouble concentrating. The cause of ADHD is unknown, although some researchers believe it is related to diet, particularly food additives, colorings and refined sugars. Avoiding heavily processed foods and adding more nutritious varieties can help with ADHD.
ADHD Dietary Strategy
The idea behind an effective ADHD diet is that the brain will function better when it is less bombarded with chemicals and toxins, and at the same time, nutritionally satiated with plenty of essential nutrients. In fact, according to "Biochemical, Physiological and Molecular Aspects of Human Nutrition," many of the symptoms of ADHD are similar to those caused by food allergies and sensitivities, so transitioning to a more natural diet can be used as a means of diagnosis.
Eliminating Foods
The first stage is to eliminate some foods for at least two weeks and observe the child's behavior. If the behavior is dramatically improved, add each food back into the diet one at a time to determine the allergy trigger. Common allergy-triggering items include dairy products, processed meats, MSG, food dyes, artificial sweeteners, highly refined sugars such as high fructose corn syrup, soda pop, fruit juice, chocolate and saturated and trans fats. Red and yellow food dyes seem to cause the most issues. According to "Advanced Nutrition: Macronutrients, Micronutrients and Metabolism," saturated and trans fats inhibit normal nerve function and interfere with the brain's neurotransmitters, which are chemical messengers that control mood and higher functions. If no triggers are found, the health of the child is still improved by avoiding these items.
Adding Foods
If no changes in behavior are noted after the food elimination, the second stage is to flood the body and brain with super-nutritious foods. Buying organic is always best because it eliminates many pesticides, additives and toxins that impair concentration and increase hyperactivity. Protein is important for an ADHD child, and good sources include beans, legumes, lean meat and low-mercury fish, such as salmon and trout. Increasing complex carbohydrates, such as vegetables and some fruits, is recommended, although bananas, pineapple, white rice and potatoes should be avoided because of their high glycemic indexes. Whole grains are healthy, although a significant percentage of ADHD kids are sensitive to gluten, which is found in wheat, rye and barley, as cited in "Contemporary Nutrition." If some sweets are required, then consider natural sources of sugar, such as honey, molasses and sugar cane. Healthier oils for cooking include flaxseed, canola and olive oils.
Potentially Beneficial Supplements
In addition to a natural, organic diet higher in protein and complex carbohydrates, certain supplements can be taken to augment an effective ADHD diet. According to "Biochemistry of Human Nutrition," supplements proven to protect the brain and enhance brain function include omega-3 fatty acids, DHA, which is often derived from marine algae, N-acetyl-cysteine, phosphatidylserine, alpha lipoic acid, coenzyme Q-10 and ginkgo biloba. Consult a health professional before initiating a supplement regimen.
References
- "Human Biochemistry and Disease"; Gerald Litwack; 2008
- "Biochemical, Physiological and Molecular Aspects of Human Nutrition"; Martha Stipanuk; 2006
- "Advanced Nutrition: Macronutrients, Micronutrients and Metabolism"; Carolyn D. Berdanier; 2009
- "Contemporary Nutrition"; Gordon M. Wardlaw; 2010
- "Biochemistry of Human Nutrition"; George Gropper; 2000
Member Comments