Attention Deficit Disorder, or ADD, also known as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, or ADHD, causes symptoms such as hyperactivity, lack of attention, low self-esteem and social difficulties. The disorder, which is most common in children, often contributes to school problems. It may also persist into adulthood. There are a number of prescription medications that are used to treat symptoms of ADD, but some healthcare practitioners and parents may also advocate dietary and nutritional changes to help control the symptoms. As with any alternative therapy, consult a doctor before beginning a dietary regimen to treat ADHD symptoms.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
An article published in the "Journal of American Physicians and Surgeons" has stated that the American diet has become deficient in omega-3 fatty acids. One important component of omega-3 fatty acids is the substance known as DHA, which plays a part in the development of brain and nerve tissue. There is some belief that prenatal nutritional levels of DHA may play a role in the development of disorders such as ADHD. Studies reviewed by the journal showed that children diagnosed with ADHD may have lower than normal levels of DHA, and though omega-3 fatty acids are needed for proper nutrition, studies using DHA supplements have not always improved ADHD symptoms. DHA and other omega-3 fatty acids can be readily found in cold-water fish, such as salmon, halibut and tuna, as well as flaxseed oil.
Omega-6 Fatty Acids
Omega-6 fatty acids, which are a group of lesser known essential fatty acids, are also an important part of good nutrition. Arachidonic acid is one component of omega-6 fatty acids and may also play an important part in the development of the brain. In the same studies reviewed by the "Journal of American Physicians and Surgeons," researchers reported that children with ADHD also had significantly lower levels of arachidonic acid, however, no studies have been performed with the supplementation to determine effectiveness for symptom improvement. Arachidonic acid and other omega-6 fatty acids are most commonly found in red meat, eggs and dairy products, but eating too many foods containing omega-6 fatty acids is thought to cause inflammation. Talk to your doctor before beginning any dietary treatment of ADD symptoms.
Sugar and Food Additives
Sugar has long been thought to be the cause of hyperactivity in children. Artificial food additives such as colorings and preservatives have also been targeted by parents and some natural health advocates as contributing to ADD. The Mayo Clinic reports that though many anecdotal reports may identify sugar and food additives as a problem, well-conducted studies that support this are lacking. The Mayo Clinic has recommended that some foods may be eliminated if they seem to be causing a problem and adds that this should be done under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional.
Elimination Diet
A 2011 study published in "The Lancet" revealed the effects of a restrictive elimination diet on symptoms. The limited diet focused on foods including rice, meat and vegetables. After five weeks of participation, approximately two-thirds of the children experienced some improvement of ADD symptoms compared to none of the children in the control group. However, researchers also noted that all of the children in both groups were moderate to severe cases of ADHD and only minor to moderate improvements were experienced. Patients were not followed long term. In spite of limited experience, many healthcare practitioners advise that if a particular food appears to be causing a significant problem, it may be eliminated but a well-balanced diet is likely best for reducing symptoms. Consult a physician before beginning a restrictive diet of any type.
References
- Mayo Clinic: Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children
- "Journal of American Physicians and Surgeons": Can Attention Deficit-Hyperactivity Disorder Result from Nutritional Deficiency; Fred Ottoboni, M.P.H., Ph.D., and Alice Ottoboni, Ph.D.; 2003
- Med Page Today: ADHD Diet Plan Gets Mixed Reviews; Kristina Fiore; February 3, 2011
- "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, et al.; 2011
