ADHD stands for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and is a condition that affects millions of children and often persists into adulthood. Patients with ADHD experience a combination of behavioral problems such as inattentiveness, hyperactivity and impulsive behavior. These problems may lead to low self-esteem, poor performance in school, difficulties forming friendships and maintaining relationships. Certain foods may be used to help control ADHD symptoms.
ADHD Symptoms
Children and adults with ADHD experience symptoms such as failure to pay attention to details, forgetfulness, trouble sustaining attention during tasks, difficulties organizing tasks and activities, refusing to listen when spoken to directly, failure to finish schoolwork, losing toys, misplacing assignments and school supplies, being easily distracted, avoiding tasks that require sustained attention, running or climbing in inappropriate situations, having difficulties awaiting their turn, blurting out answers before questions have been completed, and interrupting others.
Protein and Carbohydrates
Recent studies show that consumption of too much sugary foods can worsen hyperactivity symptoms in children with ADHD. Children diets should contain more high protein and complex carbohydrates foods because they help stabilize blood sugar levels. Parents should avoid giving too many simple carbohydrates to their children because they cause sudden spikes and drops in blood sugar levels. Examples of simple carbohydrates that increase blood sugar levels include candy, table sugar, corn syrup and honey.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are important for normal brain functioning and preventing ADHD. Omega-3 fatty acids are important for the transmission of the neurotransmitters dopamine and serotonin and for helping brain cells communicate, according to Harvard Medical School. Patients with ADHD should increase consumption of foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Examples of foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids include salmon, tuna, brazil nuts, canola oil and soy bean oil.
Foods to Avoid
A number of studies have shown that artificial food colorings and food additives such as synthetic dyes, flavors and preservatives may contribute to hyperactivity symptoms of ADHD, according to Harvard Medical School. Examples of food additives that may increase hyperactive behavior include sodium benzoate,nitrites, monosodium glutamate, tatrazine and allura red. Sources of artificial food colors and additives include brightly colored cereals, candy, fruit juices and carbonated beverages. Caffeine should also be avoid because it increase hyperactivity symptoms.
