Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder -- ADHD -- can lead to behavioral problems, including inattention, impulsivity and hyperactivity. Treatments include lifestyle modifications and medications. Some experts also suggest dietary or nutritional intervention strategies as a part of managing this disease. Evidence is mixed about whether these nutritional strategies work; your physician and therapist may recommend one or a combination to see if there is an improvement.
Feingold Diet
The Feingold Diet was developed in the 1970s; this diet eliminates artificial colorings, artificial flavorings, artificial preservatives, artificial sweeteners, and foods that contain salicylates, as noted by the Feingold Association of the United States. Fruits such as apples, blueberries and raspberries, and vegetables including cauliflower and mushrooms, may contain salicylates. Different organizations looked at the effect that limiting these artificial substances and salicylates in the diet had on ADHD and found that there may be some decrease in hyperactivity by following this type of diet, as noted by Carol Ann Brannon in the December 2007 issue of "Today's Dietitian." But other research showed little benefit, as noted by the University of Maryland Medical Center. Since the Feingold diet can be difficult to implement and involves making changes for the entire family, you should talk to your doctor before starting this diet in your home.
Carbohydrate-Limiting Diets
Another type of nutritional intervention for ADHD is a diet in which sugar is eliminated, the amount of carbohydrates is modified, and protein is increased, as noted by Carol Ann Brannon in the December 2007 issue of "Today's Dietitian." Foods that contain sugar and refined carbohydrates do not contain sufficient nutrients, so diets that contain large amounts of these foods may lead to malnutrition and behavioral problems. Anecdotal evidence hints that the diet may help; however, research has shown no relationship between sugar and ADHD, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. If you are interested in trying this diet, your child's therapist may be able to advise you.
Elimination Diets
Food allergies may play a role in ADHD for some children. For these people, trying an elimination diet may improve symptoms. In an elimination diet, you remove potential allergens from the diet to determine the effect on the child. One study by Pelsser and colleagues published in the February 2011 issue of "The Lancet" found that a strict elimination diet may significantly improve ADHD symptoms. These children were placed on a diet that did not include any processed foods for five weeks; when possible allergens were reintroduced into their diet, the symptoms associated with ADHD returned. This type of diet can be difficult to continue over the long term, and more studies are needed to see whether the diet is useful for periods longer than five weeks. You should look for a physician who has experience with elimination diets if you would like to try this with your child, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Supplementation
Children with ADHD may be deficient in specific nutrients, as noted by Carol Ann Brannon in the December 2007 issue of "Today's Dietitian." These children may need addition supplements such as omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin B-6, zinc and magnesium. For example, symptoms of magnesium deficiency include confusion, inattentiveness and irritability, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Adequate vitamin B-6 is important for creation and use of a variety of chemicals important in brain function in children with ADHD. Zinc and fatty acids each play a key role in brain functioning. A multivitamin supplement may be beneficial for your child; however, any supplements -- including fish oil -- should be discussed with your pediatrician before starting them.
References
- Feingold Association of the United States: Overview
- "Today's Dietitian;" Hyper Holidays and Hyper Kids: A Dietary Solution?; Carol Ann Brannon; December 2007.
- Cleveland Clinic: Special Diets For Food Allergies
- The Healing Center Online: Nutritional & Dietary Treatments for ADHD
- "The Lancet;" Effects of a Restricted Elimination Diet on the Behaviour of Children with Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (INCA study): a Randomised Controlled Trial; Pelsser et al; February 2011.
