Ritalin & Folic Acid

Doctors prescribe Ritalin to treat a number of conditions, but the most common uses are for treating attention deficit disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorders in children and adults. This central nervous system stimulant affects the chemical function in the brain and may benefit several disorders. If your doctor recommends Ritalin for you or a child, discuss the possible side effects and whether a nutrient such as folic acid could offer an alternative treatment option.

Folic Acid

Folate occurs naturally in foods, and folic acid consists of the manufactured form of this nutrient, which you find in supplements and fortified foods. Both forms of this B vitamin aid in a number of functions, and these include DNA and red blood cell formation, as well as metabolizing amino acids.

Studies

In a 2003 study published in “Alternative Medicine Review,” researchers evaluated the effects of nutritional supplements on the symptoms of attention deficit disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. They evaluated 20 children and found the vitamin and mineral supplements, which included a dose of folic acid, had a similar treatment effect as Ritalin.
“The Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry” published an article in October 2009 that showed low folate levels during pregnancy could contribute to attention deficit and hyperactivity disorders. This may stem from folate’s role in developing a healthy nervous system.

Recommended Intake

If your doctor recommends folic acid supplements as therapy for attention deficit or hyperactivity disorders, she will tell you how much of this nutrient you or your child needs. The recommended dietary intake of this nutrient varies, depending on age and overall health. Infants under 1 year need between 65 and 80 micrograms of folate each day. Children from age 1 to 3 need 150 micrograms. From age 4 to 8, a child requires 200 micrograms and from 9 years to 13, your child will need 300 micrograms. At age 14 and throughout adulthood, you need 400 micrograms. Pregnant women require 600 micrograms and women need 500 micrograms while breastfeeding.
Foods rich in this nutrient include spinach, which contains 60 micrograms in a 1/2 cup serving and eggs, providing 25 micrograms in an egg. Other dietary sources include fortified cereals, beans, avocados and cantaloupe.

Considerations

Ritalin and folic acid do not have a known interaction when taken together, but you should not begin using folic acid or any other supplement without first consulting your doctor because the combination of too much folic acid and certain health conditions could result in serious side effects. Folic acid may not provide an appropriate treatment for you or your child, so you should discuss all treatment options with your doctor before taking this nutrient.