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ADHD - Natural Remedies

Tess Thompson

ADHD or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder is a brain disorder that manifests in the early years of life. Even though the condition surfaces during childhood, it can continue into adulthood. ADHD is marked by impulsivity (acting on impulse rather than rational thought), hyperactivity (difficulty in sitting at one place) and lack of concentration (daydreaming and getting distracted easily).

Generally, the cause behind ADHD is considered to be genetic in nature. Prognosis borders on incurability. Traditional medicine attempts to manage ADHD with the aid of antidepressants and psycho-stimulants. Since the treatment extends over long periods of time, extended usage of these drugs produce many side effects. These side effects can range from depression to psychotic symptoms to hallucinations. Those who wish to avoid long term side effects have a convenient alternative in the shape of herbal remedies. Herbal medicines are safer and can be used over protracted periods without exposing patients to undue risks.

There is another theory that suggests that certain natural remedies like dietary modification can restore the imbalance in brain chemicals. This theory is based on the belief that incorrect dietary intake is actually the reason behind ADHD. If one adopts this natural remedy for treatment of ADHD, it is essential that the diet is monitored strictly. Some of the key ingredients and aspects to keep in mind are:  

Food Allergies - There is evidence that indicates that children with behavioral problems may be allergic to certain foods and food additives.

  1. Artificial colorings, especially yellow, red and green.
  2. Chemical additives like BHT, an organic compound primarily used as an antioxidant food additive
  3. Milk
  4. Chocolate
  5. Eggs
  6. Wheat
  7. Foods like berries, chili powder, apples, cider, cloves, grapes, oranges, peaches, peppers, plums, prunes tomatoes and all other foods containing salicylates

Essential Fatty Acids - Omega-3 fatty acids in fatty fish and some vegetables are considered to be important for proper functioning of the brain and may prove to be beneficial for ADHD patients.

Zinc - Although testing for trace minerals is not a standard procedure while assessing ADHD, deficiency of zinc is reported in some cases of ADHD. Zinc plays an important role in metabolism of neurotransmitters responsible for coordinating responses to stimuli.

Sugar - A diet high in carbohydrates is often blamed for the imbalance of brain chemicals but there is no study that specifically points towards it. It is however, generally advised that sugar consumption be cut down as it is not good for brain health.

Although difficult to maintain, a diet comprising of only turkey, rice, lettuce and pears has shown to improve symptoms of ADHD in a large number of the cases.

Besides dietary changes other natural remedies that can help in treating ADHD include Neurofeedback and Interactive Metronome and Musical Therapy. These techniques are based on EEG biofeedback and sound feedback respectively. In certain cases learning to play a musical instrument has also helped ADHD patients.

 

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References:

http://www.way2hope.org/mental-health/adhd-natural-remedies.htm http://www.kflatthealthnews.com/2007/02/adhd-fish-oil-and-primrose-oil.html http://www.umm.edu/patiented/articles/some_alternative_approaches_attention-deficit_hyperactivity_disorder_000030_10.htm http://www.highprofilearticles.com/articledetail.php?artid=43641&catid=75 http://www.free-articles-zone.com/article/46039/Natural%20ADHD%20Treatments