Although attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, most commonly affects children and adolescents, it can continue into adulthood. Characterized by inattention, impulsivity and hyperactivity, ADHD may be caused by environmental and genetic factors and can have a serious impact on a person's ability to live a fruitful and productive life. However, medicines known as stimulants help to alleviate symptoms, while behavioral therapy may improve coping and social skills. Certain vitamins and minerals might also play a role in the treatment of ADHD in women, men and children, although evidence to prove they alleviate symptoms is lacking. Get medical advice before taking supplements.
Magnesium
The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that symptoms of magnesium deficiency closely resemble symptoms of ADHD, such as irritability, mental confusion and a shortened attention span. Although clinical studies evaluating magnesium's ability to alleviate ADHD symptoms in women are limited, an article published in the June 2001 issue of the "Annals of the New York Academy of Science" notes that magnesium supplementation represents a promising alternative treatment for adults with ADHD. Get medical advice before taking a magnesium supplement.
Vitamin B-6
The brain uses vitamin B-6 to produce neurotransmitters, for example, dopamine and serotonin, levels of which may be altered in people with ADHD. The role of vitamin B-6 in the treatment of adult ADHD has not been evaluated in clinical studies. However, the results of the study in children published in the March 2006 issue of "Magnesium Research" show that vitamin B-6, when administered alongside magnesium, improves ADHD symptoms. Ask your doctor whether taking a vitamin B-6 supplement is right for you.
Ginkgo Biloba
The results of a clinical study published in the January 2010 issue of "Phytotherapy Research" shows that ginkgo biloba improves hyperactivity inattention and immaturity in individuals with ADHD. However, it is unclear whether the study was undertaken in children or adults. The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that ginkgo biloba is sometimes combined with American ginseng to improve ADHD symptoms.
Considerations
Although vitamin, mineral and herbal supplements are available without a prescription, keep in mind that they may cause side effects or be unsuitable for you. For example, ginkgo is unsuitable for women trying to conceive as it may affect fertility, while taking too much vitamin B-6 may cause nerve damage. Always consult your doctor before taking any new supplements.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
- "Annals of the New York Academy of Science"; Alternative Treatments for Adults With Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD); L.E. Arnold; June 2001
- "Magnesium Research"; Improvement of Neurobehavioral Disorders in Children Supplemented With Magnesium-Vitamin B6. I. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorders; M. Mousain-Bosc, et al.; March 2006
- "Phytotherapy Research"; Ginkgo Biloba Treating Patients With Attention-Deficit Disorder; H, Niederhofer; January 2010
- MedlinePlus: Ginkgo
- Office of Dietary Supplements: Vitamin B6
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