Drug-Free Help for ADHD
If the idea of your child using synthetic drugs to deal with Attention Deficit Disorder/Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADD/ ADHD) makes you cringe, a safer alternative may be at hand. Food swaps, lifestyle changes, and a few key nutrients can help parents and children cope with ADHD safely and effectively. Committing to a protocol now may offer.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more children are being diagnosed with ADHD in recent years and at a younger age as well. Constant screen time, processed foods, lack of restorative sleep, and less exercise also contribute to hyperactivity in children, who are already wired to behave more impulsively. Fortunately, some simple changes can make a difference.
Nutrition and ADHD
While study results are mixed, most experts agree that dietary changes can be improve overall mood, reduce impulsive behavior, and strengthen attention spans. Here are three helpful steps:
1. Eliminate gluten-containing foods, foods with artificial flavors, sweeteners, colors and preservatives and refined sugars.
2. Switch to a low carbohydrate diet with high-quality protein from fish, eggs, low fat meats, chicken and healthy fats from butter, olive oil and sesame seed oil.
3. Add omega-3 fatty acids bound to phospholipids from salmon.
Other Vital Nutrients for Memory, Attention and Peace of Mind
Nutrients, including DMAE, the amino acid L-tyrosine, and vitamin B6, aid in the function of neurotransmitters, which are messengers in the brain. Others, including grape seed extract, phosphatidylserine, taurine, rhodiola, and N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC) are also excellent ingredients for mood, concentration, and focus.
For example, in clinical trials of children with ADD, phosphatidylserine was able to improve attention and reduce symptoms. In fact, 11 of 18 children receiving phosphatidylserine had no further ADD symptoms at all. The herbal botanical rhodiola has long been used for its ability to increase focus, concentration, and memory, especially during stressful times such as final exams.
Also, bear in mind that B-vitamins in general are really the unsung heroes of the mind. The brain and nervous system simply can’t survive without them. However, when they’re deficient you’re much more likely to see cases of ADD, ADHD, and autism. In fact, a recent study showed that when women supplemented with folic acid before and during pregnancy, their child was 40 percent less likely to be diagnosed with autism.
Thriving Naturally with ADHD
It can be challenging if your children have traits identified as attention deficit and/or hyperactivity. However, as they grow and mature some of these behaviors may even come to be seen as unique gifts of energy, spontaneity, risk-taking and creativity. The goal is to promote healthy brain function, improve mood, and enhance self-esteem while avoiding the self-defeating stigma of labeling kids. With the help of supportive teachers and parents, a healthy diet, and supplements that improve focus and attention, children with this trait can lead a more relaxed, comfortable, and productive life. With ADHD behavior refocused, children are free to be what they are meant to be!
Terry Lemerond is the founder and president of EuroPharma, Inc.®, a premier U.S. based dietary supplement company with over 100 products. He has over 45 years of experience as a natural health expert, author, and speaker.
