Supplements For Oppositional Defiant Disorder

Oppositional defiant disorder, or ODD, is a condition that affects individuals, particularly children, and causes them to display a pattern of disobedience and hostility toward figures of authority. Although no exact cause has been identified, ODD appears to result from a mixture of biological, psychological and social factors. Typical treatment for ODD involves therapy and anti-psychotic medications, however, some nutritional supplements may improve the symptoms associated with this condition. Nutritional supplements are not evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration, so consult your physician before having your child begin any supplement program for ODD.

Omega-3 Supplements

Omega-3 fatty acids may help reduce the severity of the effects of ODD. Omega-3s are important in the normal function of your brain and are critical components of cell membranes and nerve tissue. Some omega-3 fatty acids are essential to the regulation and production of neurotransmitters, which are hormone-like compounds that are produced in your brain that help regulate mood. Dopamine and serotonin are two neurotransmitters that are partially controlled by omega-3 fatty acids and regulate mood, anxiety and attention.

Vitamin E

A vitamin E deficiency is common in many individuals suffering from ODD. Vitamin E contains tocopherol, which is an important antioxidant that helps protect cell membranes from damage and may help support neurological functions that are adversely affected in ODD. Vitamin E may help maintain proper chemical balance in the brain, which can minimize some of the behavioral effects of ODD. Vitamin E may enhance the effects of omega-3 fatty acids on the regulation of ODD symptoms by preventing the oxidation of fatty acids in your brain.

Zinc

Deficiencies in the mineral zinc may play a role in the severity of the symptoms associated with ODD. Zinc plays a role in the production of brain chemicals that neutralize brain stimulants that cause an increase in hyperactivity and impulsivity. Most significantly, zinc suppresses the role of copper in your brain. Copper is a trace element that may increase the incidence of behavioral and cognitive abnormalities. By neutralizing the effects of copper, zinc supplementation in individuals with ODD may help improve mood, attention and anxiety.

Melatonin

Melatonin is a natural hormone produced by your body that regulates brain function, particularly your sleep-wake cycle. Melatonin may offer benefits to individuals with ODD, and is commonly used in the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, which is a condition similar to ODD. Melatonin may be used to help normalize sleep patterns in individuals with both ODD and ADHD. Getting adequate amounts of sleep can help balance brain chemicals that regulate mood, aggression, anxiety and depression associated with ODD.