Many children experience difficulty with focus and struggle to concentrate on certain tasks. Attention deficit disorder, also known as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, is a common health problem among American children. According to the Health Central website, between 1 and 3 children in a typical classroom of 30 students will have ADHD. To gain a better understanding of the role of supplements in treating this health problem, consult your child's primary care provider.
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
ADHD may be one of the most common childhood disorders. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about 5.2 million American children between the ages of 3 and 17 have ever been diagnosed with this health problem. If your child has ADHD, he may experience impulsivity, over-activity and inattentiveness, or any combination of these three behaviors. This health problem is also associated with learning disabilities, reduced sleep, depression and other behavior problems.
Helpful Dietary Supplements
Several dietary supplements may be helpful in treating your child's ADHD, or their inability to focus and concentrate. Dr. Alan R. Gaby, a medical doctor and author of "The Natural Pharmacy," states that essential fatty acids, L-carnitine, magnesium, zinc, B-vitamins, especially vitamin B-6, and evening primrose oil may be among the most helpful supplements for this health purpose. Ginkgo, ginseng, GABA, valerian root, mullein, catnip, chamomile and hops may also be beneficial. Supplements that have traditionally been used in treating ADHD may require further scientific scrutiny.
Featured Supplement
Ginkgo, or Ginkgo biloba, may be one of the most useful supplements in improving your child's focus and concentration. According to certified nutritional consultant Phyllis A. Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," ginkgo has historically been used in improving brain function and concentration. This powerful natural healing agent has also traditionally been used to help improve cerebral and peripheral circulation and tissue oxygenation. Always ask your doctor about proper dosage before using this supplement.
Additional Information
In most cases, children with ADHD or concentration problems may benefit from complementary alternative treatment measures. Some children, however, may require more conventional treatments to help resolve their concentration and focus problems. If your child suffers from an inability to concentrate, schedule an appointment with her physician at your earliest possible convenience. Meet with your child's doctor before giving her dietary supplements to help resolve her concentration difficulties. Some supplements may cause undesired health effects.
References
- Health Central: ADD/ADHD Statistics
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
- "The Natural Pharmacy"; Alan R. Gaby, M.D.; 2006
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
