ADHD, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, is a medical disorder that involves a seeming inability to focus. Other common symptoms of ADHD are impulsiveness, forgetfulness and a need to be in motion more than is typical for most people. Generally accepted by experts as having a genetic component, ADHD is being explored by researchers as possibly having a relationship to specific proteins in the brain and nervous system. Understanding how and why ADHD develops could be integral to finding new treatments.
ADHD Overview
Restlessness, squirminess, rapid talking and general flightiness are all hallmarks of ADHD. Luckily, most people diagnosed with ADHD respond well to treatment with stimulant medications and behavior therapy. While it may be tempting to look on ADHD and its symptoms as a result of poor discipline, according to the Mayo Clinic people with ADHD have brain differences that may contribute to these symptoms. Brain scans have revealed that people with ADHD have less overall activity in the areas of the brain responsible for controlling attention and levels of activity.
The SNAP-25 and ADHD
Researchers delving into how ADHD develops have conducted thorough research on the brain and the chemicals of the brain in an effort to make connections. In a study that took place in Ireland and was published in the July 2002 issue of "Molecular Psychology", researchers explored the relationship between specific genes and ADHD diagnosis. They focused on the gene called SNAP-25, or Synaptosomal-associated protein 25, a protein found in your nerve cells that plays a role in the release of brain chemicals that inhibit activity levels. In people with ADHD, the researchers found marked differences in the number of SNAP-25 protein genes expressed. While more research is needed, the SNAP-25 protein could play a role in the development of ADHD.
ADHD and Dopamine
According to an article published in the July 2008 issue of the "Journal of Neuroscience," a genetic change in a protein in the brain that handles the chemical dopamine may make it essentially run backward, performing as if it has been influenced by a stimulant when it has not, and as if it has not when it has. Dopamine, a chemical produced in the brain, influences attention and wakefulness. Researchers suggest that, in the case of at least some people with ADHD, the differences in a crucial brain protein make their brains behave as if they are "on speed" all the time. More research is being conducted on how other proteins in the brain may impact other neuropsychological disorders.
Protein Intake and ADHD
While no empirical evidence has shown that your diet has an affect on the likelihood of you being diagnosed with ADHD, some alternative remedies still make this claim. Some parents become proponents of the Feingold Allergy Diet, which involves eliminating refined flour and white sugar as well as foods that contain salicylates, like tomatoes, grapes and strawberries. Instead, the Feingold diet suggests focusing on a larger intake of protein and complex carbohydrates. Before beginning this diet or one like it, talk with your health practitioner.
References
- Kids Health: ADHD
- Mayo Clinic: ADHD
- "Molecular Psychology"; Synaptosomal-Associated Protein 25 (SNAP-25) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): Evidence of Linkage and Association in the Irish Population; K. Brophy et. al.; July 2002
- "Eureka Alert"; Protein on 'Speed' Linked to ADHD; Craig Boerner; July 2008
- "Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine"; Kim Sharp and Theresa Odie; 2005
