Attention-deficit disorder is characterized by difficulty with concentrating, focusing and paying attention. When it is accompanied by hyperactivity, it's classified as attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. Preliminary research suggests that an iron deficiency can contribute to ADD and ADHD, and iron supplements may lessen symptoms. But, as with any nutritional supplement, you should talk to your health-care practitioner before attempting to treat a child or self-medicate with iron.
Causes of Iron Deficiency
Iron is an essential trace mineral, which means that your body cannot synthesize it, and you must obtain it through your diet. It is found in the highest amounts in animal products, such as red meat, kidney, liver and turkey. It is also found in nonanimal foods, such as fortified breakfast cereals, nuts, seeds and leafy greens. Plant sources, however, are not as easily absorbed as animal sources. Insufficient iron stores in your body can result from a diet that is low in iron, such as a strict vegetarian diet, improper iron absorption, periods of rapid growth or loss of blood. Signs of iron deficiency include lethargy, cognitive impairment, developmental delay, poor immunity, hair loss and an enlarged liver.
Iron, Dopamine and ADD
Iron is required for the synthesis of neurotransmitters, such as dopamine, norepinephrine and serotonin. Although all of these neurotransmitters are responsible for regulating mood, mental function and behavior, dopamine is hypothesized as the primary neurotransmitter implicated in ADD symptoms. Dopamine controls movements, emotional response, excitability, mental health and ability to experience pleasure. New studies suggest that low levels of dopamine may cause or exacerbate ADD symptoms. The 1997 edition of "Neuropsychobiology" hypothesizes that iron may be beneficial to those with ADD because of its ability to enhance the synthesis of dopamine.
Study of Iron Supplements for ADD Children
A study published in the 2007 edition of "Pediatric Neurology" examined the effects of iron supplements in children with ADD accompanied by hyperactivity. The children were given 80 mg of iron sulfate per day for 12 weeks, and the iron therapy was well tolerated. Within one to three months the children who started out with low levels of iron experienced a notable decrease in ADD symptoms, but the iron supplements did not seem to affect behavior or symptoms in children who were not deficient in iron at the start of the study.
Considerations
Iron can cause unwanted side effects, such as gastrointestinal irritation, abdominal pain, constipation or diarrhea, nausea and vomiting. Taking iron with food can reduce these effects, according to "Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database." For maximum absorption, take iron with vitamin C. Don't take iron with zinc or calcium supplements, which reduce its absorption. Before taking iron supplements, have your doctor test your iron levels, because iron supplements can cause toxicity in those who already have adequate stores.
References
- "Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database"; Therapeutic Research Faculty; 2011
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A Balch, CNC, and James F. Balch, MD; 2003.
- "Neuropsychobiology"; Iron Treatment in Children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. A Preliminary Report; Sever Y; 1997
- "Pediatric Neurology"; Effects of Iron Supplementation on Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in Children; Eric Konofal; 2007
- The University of Texas: Dopamine - A Sample Neurotransmitter
