ADHD Natural Treatment For Children and Adults With ADHD
While medication is the cornerstone of treatment for ADHD however, it's not the only option. Patients with ADHD may also benefit from behavioral therapy, diet modifications and supplements.
Stimulants improve concentration and focus through the production of brain chemicals norepinephrine and dopamine. If stimulants cause undesirable side effects, non-stimulants can be used.
1. Eating Clean
Many people believe that diet can influence ADHD symptoms. Research has shown certain foods can make ADHD children hyperactive, whereas others can reduce or improve symptoms. This is why a lot of parents seek to treat their children's ADHD by eating a healthy diet.
Some ADHD experts recommend not to consume a large number of foods and chemicals that are found in processed foods. Instead, they suggest eating an wholesome diet consisting of whole foods, with a preference for non-processed or minimally processed food, including vegetables, fruits, whole grains, healthful fats and lean proteins. This type of diet helps to maintain a steady mood and regulate blood sugar levels.
Herbs and nutritional supplements are effective natural ADHD treatment options. Iron deficiency, for instance is a common problem in ADHD children and supplementation could help relieve symptoms. Ginkgo biloba extract and passionflower extracts are both effective in treating ADHD symptoms.
Some children and adults with ADHD may benefit from elimination diets. These diets are based on a belief that certain foods like artificial sweeteners and preservatives can trigger hyperactivity. In addition, some people are sensitive to caffeine, which is present in many beverages like sodas, coffee, and energy drinks.
Another option is to get a food allergy or sensitivity test performed. These tests can be performed in a clinic or at your home. When food allergies or sensitivities are identified then the person can begin an elimination diet to identify problem foods. A registered dietitian can facilitate the process and ensure that the child receives adequate nutrition and avoiding problematic foods. This can be an excellent alternative to medication for those who are not at ease with them or do not intend to use them long-term.
2. Avoiding Allergies and sensitivities
Many people, including adults and children, with ADHD suffer from food sensitivities and allergies. Eliminating these foods can aid in reducing ADHD symptoms. Some examples of foods to be avoided are food dyes, MSG (a preservative used in processed food items) as well as artificial sweeteners. Nitrites in canned foods and lunchmeat can also be harmful because they disrupt the hormones that regulate the central nervous system. This can increase blood pressure, heart rate, and breathing problems.
Food allergy testing is important to determine what foods trigger ADHD symptoms. Once the ingredient or food that is causing symptoms is identified, it can then be removed from the diet. This will allow the body to recover and return to normal function. A single-food elimination diet is typically used, in which an ingredient in food or a food is removed from the diet for a specified period of time. The food is then reintroduced and symptoms are observable. This method of identifying food allergies can be a challenge and should be conducted under the supervision of a registered dietitian.
In addition to avoiding food items that can cause problems, children suffering from ADHD should be encouraged to take regular meals even if they do not feel hungry. This will help maintain their blood sugar levels and reduce the effect stimulants can have on the brain.
Some herbal supplements have been found to increase attention and focus in people suffering from ADHD. These supplements can be taken alone or in combination with other natural products and ADHD medications. For natural add treatment and French maritime pine bark extract (Pycnogenol) have been shown to increase levels of dopamine, which can reduce hyperactivity. Passionflower extract can be compared to methylphenidate for treating ADHD symptoms.
3. Get Better Sleep
A good night's sleep is the most natural treatment for ADHD for both adults and children. Insufficient sleep can exacerbate mood and attention issues, so it's crucial to ensure that you get the proper amount of sleep each night.
If you're having trouble falling asleep or stay asleep, speak to your doctor. You may be experiencing difficulty sleeping due to a variety of causes, including medication that interferes with your body's ability to relax or sleep disturbances.
In addition, sleep problems may also arise when you take stimulant medications for ADHD. Certain studies suggest that stimulant medications such as Ritalin and Adderall may affect your sleep. You can combat sleep problems by taking your medication at the same time each day, avoiding caffeine and napping during the day. Also, you can ask for four-hour doses instead of extended release meds.
Lack of sleep can cause difficulty in concentrating and focusing. If you're struggling, try to get the recommended 10-11 hour per night for children. Making a routine of bedtime and ensuring your bedroom is dark and quiet can help, too.
You must also limit your consumption of sugar and stay clear of foods that you know cause symptoms, such as processed or fast food. A balanced diet can help ease your symptoms and give more energy.
Herbal supplements can be beneficial especially if you're vitamin deficient. Some studies suggest melatonin can alleviate insomnia caused by ADHD, while other herbal remedies like Korean red ginseng, ginkgo biloba, French maritime pine bark extract (Pycnogenol) and bacopa monnieri could help to reduce the inattention ADHD symptoms. It is important to consult your doctor prior to taking any herbal or supplement treatments.
4. Meditation
Similar to a muscle the brain requires exercise in order to stay healthy. Meditation can help strengthen the focus area of the brain. It helps people look at their own thoughts and emotions and helps people to bring their thoughts that wander back to the present moment.
Meditation also helps balance the brain's neurotransmitter levels which can alleviate ADHD symptoms. This is crucial since low levels of dopamine are often associated with the condition, and meditation has been found to boost the production of dopamine in the brain.
Consistency is the key to success in meditation. Just like with exercise, it's essential to establish a plan and stick to it. It's also beneficial to find an accountability partner to share your thoughts with. This can help you to maintain a routine for your day. You can also experiment with various methods of meditation until you find the one that is effective for you.
In addition to meditation, there are also several herbs that can help improve cognitive function. These herbs can be consumed in capsules or consumed as food. Ashwagandha is one of the most well-known herbal remedies for ADHD.
Integrating these natural remedies into your routine could be a good method of managing your ADHD symptoms without the use of medications. It is essential to consult with your doctor prior to trying any new strategies or supplements. These natural remedies can be a great complement to therapy and medication for ADHD. You can manage your ADHD symptoms by focusing on sleep eating well, exercising regularly and meditating frequently.
5. Exercise
Many people with ADHD struggle to keep their bodies and brains active. This is what causes their impulsive and hyperactive behavior. By increasing your physical activity, you will assist your brain to focus. It is also possible that it decreases symptoms and enhances your ability to regulate your mood and behavior.
Exercise has also been found to increase the dopamine levels in your brain, a substance that enhances attention and focus. It also helps reduce anxiety and depression which are frequently linked to ADHD. Exercise is more effective in decreasing depression, anxiety and ADHD in adults than medication.
Make sure you exercise at minimum 30 minutes per day for four or five days a week. You can do swimming, dancing, or running. It is important to pick an activity you can stick with and enjoy. You will be motivated to exercise if select an activity you enjoy, especially if it is in an group.
Another natural treatment that can be beneficial with ADHD is yoga and meditation. Both meditation and yoga have been proven to improve mood and increase dopamine in healthy people. They also aid in improve self-control, which is often a core challenge for kids and teenagers with ADHD.
You can use these natural treatments as a supplement to or in lieu of medicines prescribed by your doctor. However, you should always consult your health care professional prior to making major lifestyle changes or using new products. They can offer more information on the best treatments for you.