ADHD Diets for Kids

Kids who have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) have difficulty sustaining attention and focusing on the everyday tasks that other children handle with ease. They are unable to complete chores, finish tasks at school or follow through with their homework. Often, kids with ADHD have difficulties controlling their impulses. Research suggests there is a genetic basis for ADHD, but it is believed that environmental and developmental factors such as in utero exposure to tobacco or alcohol, or early exposure to toxins such as lead can contribute to ADHD. A wide variety of medical, dietary and nutritional factors can contribute to the severity of children's attention and behavior problems. Consequently, careful management of children's diet and nutrition can be an important component of a comprehensive treatment program.

High-Protein Diet

High-protein diets stabilize blood sugar, minimize the possible influence of hypoglycemia in producing ADHD symptoms and enhance the production of amino acids that participate in the production of important brain chemicals called neurotransmitters. Include protein at each meal and.,if possible, in mid-morning and mid-afternoon snacks. Proteins include soy products such as tofu, meats, nuts and legumes. Cold-water fish and seafood provide protein and also DHA, an essential fatty acid that is often lacking in people with ADHD. Include seafood such as bluefish, cod, halibut, herring, mackerel, mullet, sable fish, salmon, sardines, shrimp, trout,and tuna.

Complex Carbohydrate Diet

ADHD diets should include complex carbohydrates to aid metabolic regulation and minimize ADHD symptoms. Complex carbohydrates, such as fresh vegetables, fresh fruit, legumes like split peas, lentils and beans and whole grain foods should be included in every meal.

Low-Sugar Diet

Experts cannot arrive at a consensus on the effect of sugar on ADHD. A review of research conducted by the NIH indicates that about 5 percent of children with ADHD---those with food allergies or who are very young---show significant benefits from restricted diets. On the other hand, other studies suggest that sugar can play a role in making ADHD symptoms worse. For example, a study of 261 children with hyperactivity indicated that nearly three-quarters of the children had more severe ADHD symptoms following sugar consumption.

Elimination Diet

According to many sources, food allergies may contribute to the severity of ADHD symptoms. Try an "elimination diet" to evaluate if food allergies contribute to ADHD symptoms. Basically, you eliminate food from your diet and observe the effect on ADHD symptoms. Then, one food item at a time, add food back into the diet while monitoring ADHD symptoms. If ADHD symptoms get worse following reintroduction of the food, eliminate it from the diet for good. Foods that may contribute to ADHD symptoms in some people include processed foods, artificial sweeteners like aspartame, gluten products such as wheat bread and wheat pasta and milk and dairy products such as cheese, sour cream, yogurt and ice cream.