Nutrition and ADHD

Fast food, soda, and sweet snacks may be our child’s favorite foods, but they’re also probably the worst for those with ADHD. In fact, according to two researchers from Children’s Memorial Hospital in Chicago, a relatively simple diet low in fats and high in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables is one of the best alternatives to ADHD drugs. As mentioned above, healthy fats such as Omega-3s have also been shown to help in some controlled studies. Additionally, according the Australian Raine study, a compelling study that followed children from birth to age 14, the development of ADHD was significantly associated with “Western” diets that are rich in saturated fats and sugar. “Healthy” diets that consisted of quality proteins, including low-fat fish and dairy products, and with a high proportion of vegetables, fruits, and whole grains were shown to be beneficial for children with ADHD. Interestingly, research indicates that nutrition that is good for the brain is likely to be good for ADHD.  http://kyleleon.isnotonfacebook.com/

The following basic nutritional regimen will minimize symptoms associated with ADHD: Eat a high-protein diet. Foods rich in protein including chicken, turkey, fish, eggs, beans, nuts, soy and dairy products are used by the body to make neurotransmitters, the chemicals released by brain cells to communicate with each other. Protein can prevent surges in blood sugar, which increase hyperactivity. Decrease simple carbohydrates such as candy, corn syrup, honey, sugar, products made with white flour, white rice and fried potatoes. Increase complex carbohydrates, including fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Increase healthy fats (Omega-3 fatty acids), including tuna, salmon, other cold-water white fish, walnuts, olive oil and canola oil. Many diets are deficient in key vitamins and minerals that may improve attention and alertness. Dietary supplements can often fill in these dietary gaps. The following supplements may be beneficial for children and adults struggling with ADHD: Multivitamin: If your child is a picky eater or just doesn’t eat a healthy diet, he or she won’t get the daily recommended value of vitamins and minerals. A daily multivitamin will ensure that he or she will. Be sure to buy a multivitamin that does not contain artificial colors and flavors, which are known to increase hyperactivity in some children with ADHD. Note: Starting in 1975, Benjamin Feingold proposed that artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives might lead to hyperactivity in some children. Recent British research indicated a possible link between consumption of certain food additives including artificial colors or preservatives and an increase in activity. Based on this and other recent studies, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that eliminating preservatives and food colorings from the diet is a reasonable option for children with ADHD. Both children and adults with ADHD should avoid the following substances: Artificial colors, especially red and yellow Food additives such as aspartame, MSG (monosodium glutamate) and nitrites B Vitamins: Studies suggest that giving children who have low levels of B vitamins a supplement improved IQ scores (by 16 points) and reduced aggression and antisocial behavior. Vitamin B-6 has been shown to increase the dopamine levels in the brain, which improves alertness. Zinc: Zinc synthesizes dopamine and augments the effects of the ADHD drug methylphenidate. Low levels of this mineral correlate with inattention. Iron: Iron is also necessary for making dopamine. In one small study, ferritin levels (a measure of iron stores) were low in 84 percent of ADHD children compared to 18 percent of the control group. Low iron levels correlate with cognitive deficits and severe ADHD. Magnesium: Sufficient levels of magnesium have a calming effect on the brain. Herbs are also beneficial for children with ADHD. The following herbs are great for children and adults who may have symptoms associated with ADHD: Ginkgo and Ginseng: Both are cognitive activators. They act like stimulants without the side effects. Typically, adults and children who take ginkgo and ginseng improve on ADHD rating scales, and are less impulsive and distractible. http://kyleleon.portfolik.com/

 Asian ginseng may overstimulate younger children. If this happens to your child, switch to American ginseng. Pycnogenol: An extract made from French maritime pine bark, pycnogenol was found to improve hyperactivity and sharpen attention. The herb pycnogenol is also rich in polyphenols, antioxidants that protect brain cells from free radicals. The first double-blind study on pycnogenol was published in 2006, showing the herb’s efficacy. Rhodiola Rosea: This herb can improve alertness, attention and accuracy. It is likely to stimulating for young children inclusive to age 12. However, it can be very beneficial for kids in junior high, high school and college. ADHD is impacting today’s youth at an exponential rate. Many of our children struggle with this disability every day. Parents should work closely with teachers, counselors and their health professionals to address symptoms associated with ADHD. They should understand the nutritional and dietary supplement protocol for this condition. An understanding of this very prevalent neurobehavioral disorder will have a direct and profound impact on a wide range of physical and cognitive issues moving forward. http://kyleleonscam.ismyreal.name/