Though often associated with children, ADHD is a behavioral disorder that can just as easily affect adults. Symptoms of ADHD include struggling with concentration, hyperactivity and having a hard time sleeping. One of the amino acids -- which are the building blocks of protein -- that is helpful when it comes to sleep problems is tryptophan. Consuming this amino acid may help you to deal with ADHD. Be sure to see your doctor to determine the best diet and lifestyle options if you or your child have ADHD.
Milk
One food high in both tryptophan and protein is milk. According to Dr. David B. Sudderth in his book, "Adult ADD: The Complete Handbook," this is also one food that may be helpful for ADHD, particularly sleep issues related to the condition. Tryptophan in general is linked to increased sleep, and it can be helpful to consume it a couple of hours before bed. Sudderth adds that the old advice about having a glass of warm milk before bed can help to calm the system and promote sleep.
Eggs
Another food high in protein that also contains tryptophan is eggs. This whole food offers an array of vitamins and minerals, including A, D and E, B-complex, iron, selenium and zinc. It also provides a large amount of tryptophan, which, according to Barbara D. Ingersoll in her book, "Attention Deficit Disorder and Learning Disabilities," is essential to the manufacture of the neurotransmitter serotonin. Some research suggests there is a link between low serotonin and ADHD.
Turkey
Turkey is another food that is naturally high in protein and tryptophan. In his book, "Prescription for Natural Cures," Dr. James Balch recommends eating turkey if you suffer from ADHD. Again, this is due to tryptophan's ability to convert into serotonin, which can help to produce a sense of calm. He recommends including organic turkey in meals or as a snack, and if sleeping issues are a symptom of your ADHD, be sure to include turkey at dinner.
Fish
Fish is not only high in protein and tryptophan, but it also contains omega-3 essential fatty acids that can be beneficial when treating ADHD. Nutrition writer Winnie Yu recommends eating fish in her book, "What to Eat for What Ails You," because this food can help with ADHD and it also contains numerous other nutrients, including B-vitamins. The omega-3s found in fish help to ease symptoms that can be aggravating when dealing with ADHD, including excessive thirst, dry skin and frequent urination.
References
- "Adult ADD: The Complete Handbook"; David B. Sudderth, MD; 1996
- "Attention Deficit Disorder and Learning Disabilities"; Barbara D. Ingersoll, PhD; 1993
- "Prescription for Natural Cures"; James Balch, MD; 2004
- "What to Eat for What Ails You"; Winnie Yu; 2007
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