Most kids, like many adults, have trouble focusing and paying attention from time to time. In some cases, these symptoms may indicate the presence of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, or ADHD. Although more research is necessary, diet may play a role in improving a child's attention span and ability to focus.
Feingold Diet
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, the Feingold diet is the most well-known dietary method for treating ADHD. The elimination of certain ingredients and food additives provides the basis for this diet. The Feingold diet prohibits the consumption of most processed foods that have additives, as well as certain medications that contain salicylates, a family of drugs that help reduce inflammation. Aspirin is one type of salicylate. Suspect foods include milk, eggs, wheat and chocolate. This diet also eliminates many varieties of vegetables and fruits. However, the Harvard Medical School advise that there is no traditional research supporting the benefits of this type of radical diet.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
A diet that contains omega-3 fatty acids may have a beneficial effect on children who have difficulty paying attention and focusing. Dietary sources of omega-3 fatty acids include varieties of fatty fish and vegetable oils. Including these in your child's diet can help increase the amount of omega-3 fatty acids in his diet. Some early studies indicate that children with ADHD may have lower levels of omega-3 fatty acids in their blood compared to their peers who don't have ADHD. According to Omega-3 Learning for Health and Medicine, one study using omega-3 supplementation showed no changes in ADHD symptoms, while other studies showed a reduction in the severity of the symptoms. Additional studies are currently underway to determine what effect these fatty acids may have on children with ADHD.
Nutrients
Some children with ADHD have nutritional deficiencies of certain minerals and vitamins, including iron, vitamin B-6, magnesium and zinc, although it's unclear whether increasing the intake of these vitamins and minerals increase the attention span, the Harvard Medical School reports.
Considerations
Although more research is necessary to determine the importance of diet in improving the attention span of children, a balanced diet that includes nutritious foods can help guard against nutritional deficiencies and serve to promote optimal health. Talk to your pediatrician before placing your child on a strict diet designed to treat a medical or behavioral problem. Other alternative treatments for ADHD, such as massage therapy, meditation and relaxation training, may prove beneficial.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
- Harvard Health Publications: Diet and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
- Omega-3 Learning for Health & Medicine: Omega-3 Fatty Acids for Children and Adolescents
- University of Washington; Aspirin and Related Drugs; May 2007
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