AAttention Hyperactivity Deficit Disorder (ADHD) is a condition characterized by learning and behavioral disorders. Alternative treatments for this condition include non-drug solutions for treating symptoms and behaviors. Alternative treatments are helpful when a child cannot tolerate medication or medication is not the first choice of treatment.
Behavior Therapy
Behavior therapy can be developed by a pediatrician, school psychologist or mental health counselor. It is based on a structured system of rewards and consequences, such as increased or decreased privileges along with changes in a child's environment to minimize distractions. The goal is to teach the child new ways of behaving.
Omega Fish Oils
A study published in the May 5, 2005, issue of Pediatrics states that a lack of certain polyunsaturated fatty acids may contribute to dyslexia and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Children who take fish oil supplements rich in omega-3 essential fatty acids (EFAs) have shown improvement in behavior. It is recommended to choose a high-quality fish oil supplement.
High-Protein Diet
Poor eating habits do not cause ADHD or ADD, but recent research suggesst a possible link between symptoms and the foods a child consumes. Neuroscientist Richard Wurtman, Ph. D. from MIT has shown that dietary protein triggers the syntheses of alertness-inducing neurotransmitters. If your child suffers from ADHD with inattentiveness or ADD, he will fare better with a breakfast and lunch high in protein. Consult your physician to find out how much protein your child should be consuming based on his age, and encourage that consumption in the morning.
Iron
Low levels of iron can worsen ADHD symptoms in children with the condition. Iron plays an important role in the brain, affecting production of the key neurotransmitter dopamine. Your physician can test your child's levels of iron if you suspect your child has low levels that are contributing to his behavior. Diet, not supplements, is the safest way to increase levels of iron if necessary. You can also increase iron absorption by adding foods high in vitamin C such as orange and grapefruit juice. Iron-rich foods include Cheerios, tuna, peas, eggs, bananas, peanut butter and whole-wheat bread.
Daily Exercise
Daily exercise is essential for all children, but especially children with ADHD. Hyperactivity symptoms are elevated with physical activity that also helps promote gross motor skills. Children with ADHD have a hard time with sports such as soccer, basketball or football, which require constant alertness and have peripheral stimuli. Swimming, tennis and martial arts are recommended sports for kids with ADHD.
Neurofeedback
The goal of neurofeedback is to teach the child to produce the brain-wave patterns associated with focus. This treatment is conducted by a practitioner who maps the child's brain and gathers medical history. Treatment consists of the child wearing a cap lined with electrodes, which helps the practitioner pinpoint the areas on a color-coded map where there is too little or too much brain activity. Eventually the brainwave activity is "shaped" toward more desirable, more regulated performance specific to the individual. Sessions are painless but expensive for the course of treatment, ranging from $2,000 up to $5,000.
