Attention deficit disorder (ADD) was previously thought to be one that resolved as a child grew into adolescence. Now, according to Terry Matlen, MSW, ACSW, of the Attention Deficit Disorder Association, research shows that the child with ADD often grows into an adult with the same disorder. Adults with ADD may have developed coping skills to help them live with their symptoms, which can include impulsive behavior, lack of attention and poor follow-through. Some adults however, still find it difficult to meet their full potential, which can lead to depression and anxiety. A number of dietary approaches are used to help adults with ADD, with mixed results.
The Feingold Diet
The Feingold Diet, according to the University of Maryland, is the most well-known diet for ADD and ADHD. This diet is based on the premise that certain food additives including artificial colors, preservatives and salicylates can elicit ADD and ADHD symptoms in sensitive individuals. This diet can be difficult to impose on a child, but may be possible for an adult who may have more ability to adhere to the limitations. The initial stage of the Feingold Diet involves avoiding aspirin and any foods that contain salicylates, which are naturally occurring substances. The individual then identifies and eliminates sources of artificial color, artificial flavor and preservatives such as BHT and BHA.
Sugar Restriction
Although most research does not support the theory that sugar can make ADD and ADHD symptoms worse, some parents of children with these behavioral disorders claim to notice a difference when sugar is avoided. A 1994 study published in "The New England Journal of Medicine" found that neither sugar nor aspartame had a significant effect on the behavior or cognitive abilities of children. Adult ADD and ADHD may respond to a reduced sugar diet, possibly because it forces you to emphasize healthier foods.
Elimination Diet
Similar to the Feingold Diet, an elimination diet is performed to isolate and identify potential triggers of ADD and ADHD symptoms. The elimination diet is administered in phases, but initially begins with a healthy eating plan that doesn't include common triggers. Each week, a new, potentially triggering food like milk, wheat or eggs is reintroduced and symptoms recorded. A 2011 study published in "The Lancet" found no significant change in behavior in 100 randomly selected children on an elimination diet. The researchers, however, did suggest that if a child does have a food allergy, an elimination diet may be useful in identifying a food that can potentially cause behavioral changes.
Adding Essential Nutrients
According to the University of Maryland, the addition of certain nutritional supplements is used as an approach to both ADD and ADHD. These supplements, which include essential fatty acids and the mineral zinc, should be administered with the guidance of your physician. Essential fatty acids are necessary for cognitive functioning and therefore may be helpful for adult ADD and ADHD. Zinc is essential for the proper functioning of neurotransmitters, and a deficiency of this mineral has been associated with the incidence of ADHD.
References
- Attention Deficit Disorder Association: ADHD: Not Just for Kids Anymore
- University of Maryland: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder -- Other Treatments
- University of Maryland: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
- Feingold Association of the United States: Overview of the Feingold Diet Program for ADHD
- "The New England Journal of Medicine"' Effects of Diets High in Sucrose or Aspartame on The Behavior and Cognitive Performance of Children; Mark L. Wolraich, et al.; Feb. 3, 1994
- "The Lancet"; Effects of a Restricted Elimination Diet on the Behaviour of Children With Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (INCA Study): a Randomised Controlled Trial; Lidy M. Pelsser, MSc; Feb. 5, 2011
