ADHD Natural Treatment For Children and Adults With ADHD
While medication is the mainstay of treatment for ADHD, it's not the only option. The condition can be treated with behavior therapy, dietary changes, and supplements.
Stimulants help improve focus and concentration by increasing the brain chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine. If stimulants cause unpleasant negative side effects, non-stimulants may be employed.
1. Healthy eating
Many people believe that diet can play a major part in ADHD symptoms. Research has shown that certain foods cause children with ADHD become more hyperactive, while other foods help or reduce symptoms. This is the reason why many parents seek to treat their children's ADHD by eating a healthy diet.
Some ADHD experts recommend avoiding a long list of foods and chemicals that are found in processed foods. Instead, they recommend an wholesome diet consisting of whole foods, and preferably non-processed or minimally processed food, including vegetables, fruits whole grains, healthy fats, and lean proteins. This type of diet helps to maintain a steady mood and balance blood sugar.
Other ADHD natural remedies include nutritional supplements and herbal remedies. Iron deficiency, for example, is common in ADHD children and supplementation could help relieve symptoms. Ginkgo biloba and passionflower extract have been shown to be effective in treating ADHD symptoms.
Some adults and children with ADHD may benefit from elimination diets. These diets are based upon the belief that certain foods such as artificial sweeteners or preservatives, can cause hyperactivity. In addition, certain people may be sensitive to caffeine, which can be found in a variety of sodas, coffee drinks and energy drinks.
A test for sensitivity or food allergies is another option. The test can be performed at a clinic or at the home. Once food sensitivities or allergies are identified, the person can start an elimination diet to pinpoint problem foods. A registered dietitian can help facilitate the process and ensure that the child is receiving adequate nutrition and avoiding problematic foods. This is an excellent alternative to medication for those who do not like them or do not want to use them for a long time.
2. Avoiding Allergies and Sensitivities
Many kids and adults with ADHD have food sensitivities and allergies. Eliminating these foods can help reduce ADHD symptoms. Some examples of foods to be avoided are food dyes, MSG (a preservative used in processed foods), and artificial sweeteners. Nitrites, found in canned lunchmeat and other foods, can be harmful as they alter the hormones that control the central nervous system, which can increase heart rate and blood pressure and causes breathing issues.
The testing for food allergies is crucial to determine which foods cause ADHD symptoms. Once the food or ingredient creating symptoms has been identified, it can be removed from the diet. This will allow your body to recover, and resume normal function. A single-food elimination diet is commonly used, in which the food ingredient or a food item is removed from the diet for a period of time. Then it is introduced back to see how the symptoms are affected. This method can be difficult to implement and should only be used under the supervision of either a registered dietitian or a doctor.
Children with ADHD should eat regularly, even if it doesn't cause them to feel hungry. This will help maintain blood sugar levels and reduce the effects that stimulants have on the brain.
Some herbal supplements have been proven to increase attention and focus in people suffering from ADHD. These supplements can be used either on their own or in conjunction with other natural products and ADHD medication. For instance Ginkgo biloba and French maritime pine bark extract (Pycnogenol) have been proven to boost levels of dopamine, which calms hyperactivity. Additionally, the extract of passionflower has been proven to be similar to methylphenidate in improving ADHD symptoms.
3. Improve Your Sleep
Sleeping well is the most effective natural cure for ADHD in children and adults. Insufficient sleep can cause increased attention and mood problems and it is therefore essential to get the right amount of sleep every night.
Consult your physician If you're having difficulty sleeping or staying asleep. There are a variety of reasons why you might be having trouble sleeping, such as sleep disorders or medications that hinder the body's ability to relax.
Additionally, sleep treatment of add can occur when you take stimulant medication for ADHD. Certain studies suggest that stimulant drugs such as Ritalin and Adderall may affect your sleep. You can overcome sleep issues by taking your medication at the same time every day by avoiding caffeine and napping, and requesting four-hour doses instead of extended-release medications.
Sleep deprivation can make concentrating and focusing difficult. If you're having trouble concentrating, consider getting the recommended 10-11 hour per night of sleep for children. Making a routine of bedtime and keeping your room dark and quiet can help, too.
It's also important to limit consumption of sugar and avoid eating foods that can cause symptoms, such as processed or fast foods. A balanced diet can also improve your symptoms and give you more energy.
Herbal supplements can be beneficial particularly if you're deficient. Some studies suggest melatonin can help with insomnia caused by ADHD, and other herbal remedies such as Korean red ginseng, ginkgo biloba, French maritime pine bark extract (Pycnogenol) and bacopa monnieri could help to reduce the intensity of ADHD symptoms. (14) But more research is needed therefore you must consult with your doctor prior to trying any supplements or herbal treatments.
4. Meditation
Similar to a muscle, the brain needs exercise to keep it healthy. Meditation is a way to improve the focus part of the brain. It teaches people to pay attention to their thoughts and emotions and trains them to bring their wandering thought back to the present.
Meditation can also help balance the neurotransmitter levels in the brain, which can ease ADHD symptoms. Meditation has been shown to increase brain dopamine production which is crucial since low levels of dopamine are related to ADHD.
The key to making meditation effective is regularity. Like exercising, it's crucial to establish a plan and adhere to it. Find a meditation partner that will hold you accountable is also beneficial. This can make it easier to keep up with the daily routine. It's also recommended to try different ways of meditation until you find the one that is most suitable for you.
Aside from meditation, there are also a number of herbal remedies that can boost cognitive functioning. The herbs can be consumed as food or taken in capsule form. Ashwagandha is among the most well-known herbal remedies for ADHD.
Integrating these natural remedies into your routine could be a great method to control your ADHD symptoms without the need for medication. However, it's important to consult with your doctor before trying any new supplements or techniques. Treatment and medication are the best methods for treating ADHD, but these natural treatments can be a great complement to your treatment plan. By putting sleep first, eating clean, and taking regular meditation classes you'll be on your way to tackling your ADHD symptoms naturally.
5. Exercise
Many people suffering from ADHD have difficulty keeping their bodies and minds active. This is a large component of the reason for their hyperactive and impulsive behavior. You can help your brain to refocus by increasing your physical activity. You may also notice that it decreases your symptoms and increases your ability to control your mood and behavior.
Exercise has also been proven to increase the dopamine levels in your brain, a substance that improves focus and attention. It can also reduce depression and anxiety, which are often associated with ADHD. Exercise is more effective in decreasing depression, anxiety and ADHD in adults than medication.
Try to get at least 30 minutes of moderate intensity exercise a day, or four or five days per week. You can do swimming, dancing, or running. But it is essential to select an activity you enjoy and can be committed to. You will be motivated to exercise if you select an activity you enjoy, especially when it is part of a group.
Yoga and meditation are two other treatments that are natural that can aid ADHD. Both have been shown to increase dopamine levels and improve moods in healthy people. They also aid in improve self-control, which is a core challenge for kids and teenagers with ADHD.
You can use these natural remedies as a supplement or in place of medications prescribed by your doctor. But, it is important to consult your doctor prior to making any major lifestyle changes or trying new products. They can provide more information about the best treatment options for you.