What Are The Benefits Of A Gluten-free Diet For Adhd?

ADHD, or attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, affects over 8 million Americans. The prevalence of ADHD is even higher in people with celiac disease or gluten intolerance, affecting up to 50 percent of this population, according to the June 2004 issue of "Journal of Pediatrics." For people diagnosed with ADHD and intolerant to gluten, following a gluten-free diet can greatly improve the symptoms associated with this condition, as shown in a study published in November 2006 in the "Journal of Attention Disorders."

Improved Behavior

Some people affected with ADHD are hyperactive and impulsive. They are constantly active, fidgeting, moving things around, feeling restless and climbing everywhere; they cannot stay in place. They may also have difficulties waiting for their turn, talk excessively and blurt out answers before hearing the whole question. All of these behavioral problems may improve significantly on a gluten-free diet. If gluten intolerance is part of the problem, eliminating gluten can result in calmer and more relaxed behaviors.

Improved Concentration

While some people with ADHD are hyperactive, others display attention-deficit symptoms. They may not be able to listen when spoken to, can have difficulties following instructions, may often lose or forget important things and have trouble concentrating on a task. According to Dr. David Perlmutter, neurologist and coauthor of "Raise a Smarter Child by Kindergarten," most people with ADHD see significant improvements in these behaviors, especially if they have been complaining of abdominal pain, headaches or other symptoms resulting from a gluten intolerance. Eliminating gluten often results in improved results at school or increased performance at work.

Medication

Most people with ADHD are prescribed drugs to help with their behavior and make it easier for them to function in the society. However, according to Dr. Perlmutter, drugs should be used only if everything else has failed, and this is why he suggests trying a gluten-free diet and other dietary approaches to see if improvements can be made without using medications. Selecting organic foods, avoiding fish containing high levels of mercury, eliminating food colorings and supplementing the diet with omega-3 DHA fats can also be effective at improving ADHD-related symptoms.

Going Gluten-Free

Going on a gluten-free diet requires considerable changes to your usual dietary habits, but fortunately more and more gluten-free options are on the market to facilitate the transition. Reading food labels is important to avoid any foods that may contain gluten, wheat, rye, barley or oats, such as breakfast cereals, bread, bagels, pasta, muffins, desserts, soy sauce, marinades and seasonings. Consult with a dietitian specializing in gluten-free diets for help planning a healthy gluten-free menu for ADHD.