If your child has been diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), you may be able to control his symptoms using diet rather than medication. Different doctors have had success with different ADHD diets, but since each child is unique, what works for one may not work for yours. The key is to try one thing at a time, and monitor the results. If your child becomes more irritated, it may or may not be because of his new diet; it could simply be that he misses his favorite foods, so take that into account.
Organic and Whole Foods
It's convenient to grab pre-packaged meals for your child, especially if you're a busy family. However, processed foods are laden with additives like preservatives, artificial colorings and flavorings. David Perlmutter, M.D., the author of "Raise a Smarter Child by Kindergarten," treats children with ADHD, but only uses medication as a last resort because he believes diet is one of the most important factors. He says that additives, toxins and pesticides can "impair concentration and increase hyperactivity" in kids, and for that reason recommends organic food whenever possible. Focus on whole foods, including fresh meats instead of packaged lunch meats, and fruits and vegetables from the produce aisle instead of those that are canned with additives. Also serve plain or filtered water instead of sweetened or carbonated beverages, and check any vitamins or medications that your child takes, as some contain artificial dyes.
Sugar-Free
There has never been a study that conclusively showed a link between sugar and hyperactivity, but many parents believe this to be the case. If you find your child behaves better with less sugar in his diet, then go ahead and limit it, especially refined sugar. Anthony Kane, M.D., who runs the website ADDADHDAdvances.com and whose own children have ADHD, advises avoiding sugar because even though studies haven't proven a negative effect, none of them have shown a positive effect, either. The other thing to consider is that many sugar-laden foods are also full of additives and preservatives, which could be an even bigger culprit for your ADHD child.
Focus on Protein
On his website, Dr. Kane says, "We know that eating sugar does affect learning and behavior negatively, particularly after a low protein carbohydrate meal. This occurs even in normal children." To counteract this, he recommends that you serve your child protein-rich meals for breakfast and lunch, at least during the school year. This can include eggs and fresh meats such as grilled chicken, grilled fish, steak and fresh ground beef.
Gluten-Free
Dr. Perlmutter has found that a high proportion of kids with ADHD are also sensitive to gluten, so avoid wheat-, barley- and rye-based cereals, breads, cakes and cookies to see if that helps. There are many delicious gluten-free goods and mixes now available, especially at the health food store, which can replace the baked foods you normally serve your child. If gluten does not affect her, serve a variety of whole grains rather than processed baked goods.
Dairy-Free
Glenn Hefley, the father of an ADHD child and the owner of the website 4-ADHD.com, says that his son's ADHD is visibly impacted by milk, ice cream and other dairy-based foods. He now serves soy milk instead, and has seen a big difference. The website ADHDChildParenting.com also recommends taking dairy out of your child's diet, for at least two weeks at first, to see how he reacts. That includes all cheese, yogurt, milk and cream.
