Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is one of the most common childhood disorders that can last into adulthood, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. Common symptoms include an inability to focus, a tendency to hyper-focus on particular tasks, impulsive thoughts and behavior, and hyperactivity. You may experience one or several of these symptoms, which are often managed through lifestyle changes, psychotherapy and stimulant medications. Because caffeine has stimulant properties, it may play a useful role in treatment.
Theories
The basic theory is that because ADHD often causes paradoxical reactions to substances, meaning substances that normally amp people up provide calmness to those with ADHD, the stimulatory properties of caffeine may reduce hyperactivity and improve your ability to focus and function normally. Use of caffeine for treating ADHD remains controversial. In an article in "Monitor in Psychology" in June 2001, Marjorie Roth Leon, a psychologist associated with National-Louis University, said caffeine can reduce aggressiveness and explosiveness and increase calmness in children with the disorder. However, Mark Stein, a psychologist with Children's Hospital in Washington, warned that overconsumption of caffeine can trigger sleep problems and ADHD symptoms such as inattentiveness.
Potential Benefits
Research regarding caffeine and ADHD is somewhat limited. A report published in the "Journal of Attention Disorders" in April 2000 that reviewed existing studies concluded caffeine is more effective than no treatment in reducing aggression and impulsiveness, and more effective than placebos in reducing hyperactivity and parents' and teachers' perceptions of symptom severity. The stimulant medication methylphenidate has proven more effective than caffeine in treating ADHD, however. Combining stimulant medications with caffeine may produce better results than caffeine or medications alone. Caffeine may also provide an alternative for people opposed to medication use.
Potential Risks
Effects of caffeine vary significantly among individuals, according to Stein, and the effect of excessive caffeine use requires more investigation. Heavy caffeine intake -- more than 500 mg to 600 mg, or four cups of coffee daily -- may cause nervousness, insomnia, restlessness, irritability, upset stomach, rapid heartbeat and muscle tremors. Children are more susceptible to these risks. If caffeine triggers symptoms similar to ADHD, you and your doctor may mistake your condition for ADHD when you are merely overcaffeinated. Caffeine use can also lead to withdrawal symptoms, such as headaches, grogginess and irritability, if your normal dose is delayed or skipped.
Suggestions
To determine whether caffeine in beverage or supplement form might benefit your ADHD symptoms, seek guidance from your doctor. If you find caffeine improves your symptoms, stick to moderate amounts: two to three 8-oz cups of coffee per day for most people. Avoid energy drinks that contain questionable ingredients or unknown amounts of caffeine. Other sources of caffeine include soft drinks, tea and chocolate. Other potentially useful ADHD treatment aids, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, include a nutritious diet that includes omega-3 fatty acids, prevalent in cold-water fish such as salmon and mackerel, flaxseeds and walnuts.
References
- National Institute of Mental Health: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
- "Monitor on Psychology"; A Sip into Dangerous Territory; Eileen O'Connor; June 2001
- "Journal of Attention Disorders"; Effects of Caffeine on Cognitive, Psychomotor, and Affective Performance of Children with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder; April 2000
- Mayo Clinic: Caffeine -- How Much Is Too Much?
- Riverside Health System: ADHD -- Does Caffeine Help?
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder -- Other Treatments
