ADHD Natural Treatment For Children and Adults With ADHD
ADHD is not just treated with medication. The condition can be treated through behavior therapy, dietary modifications, and supplements.
Stimulants enhance concentration and focus through the increase of brain chemicals norepinephrine, and dopamine. Non-stimulants may be used if stimulants cause unpleasant side effects.
1. Clean eating
Many people believe that diet can be a significant factor in ADHD symptoms. Studies have shown that certain foods cause children with ADHD act more hyperactive, while other foods help or reduce symptoms. This is why a lot of parents try to treat their children's ADHD by eating a healthy diet.
Some ADHD experts recommend avoiding a list of chemicals and food items found in processed food. Instead, they recommend a healthy diet of whole foods, and preferably non-processed or minimally processed food that include vegetables, fruits, whole grains, healthful 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 herbs. For instance iron deficiency is commonly observed in children with ADHD and supplements can reduce symptoms. Ginkgo biloba extract and passionflower extract are effective in treating ADHD symptoms.
Some adults and children with ADHD might benefit from elimination diets. These diets are based on a belief that certain food items, like artificial sweeteners or preservatives can trigger hyperactivity. Additionally, some people are sensitive to caffeine, which is found in many sodas, coffee drinks and energy drinks.
Another option is to have a food allergy test or sensitivity test performed. This can be done in an office or at the home. When food allergies or sensitivities are established and the individual is able to begin an elimination diet to find food items that cause problems. A registered dietitian can assist to make the process easier and ensure that the child is getting enough nutrition while eliminating problem food. This is an excellent alternative to medication for those who don't like them or do not want to use them for a long time.
2. Avoiding allergies and sensitivities
Many children and adults with ADHD have food sensitivities and allergies. Eliminating these foods can aid in reducing ADHD symptoms. Some examples of foods that should be avoided are food dyes, MSG (a preservative used in processed foods) and artificial sweeteners. Nitrites, which are found in canned lunchmeat and other foods can also be harmful because they disrupt the hormones that control the central nervous system, which can increase heart rate and blood pressure and causes trouble breathing.
Food allergy testing is essential for finding which foods are triggering ADHD symptoms. Once the food or additive that is causing the symptoms is identified and eliminated, it can be removed from the diet. This will allow the body to heal and return to normal function. A single-food elimination diet is typically employed, where an ingredient in food or a food is eliminated from the diet for a period of time. The food is then introduced back into the diet and the symptoms are observed. This approach can be difficult to master and should only be utilized under the supervision of either a registered dietitian, or a doctor.
In addition to avoiding foods that are known to cause problems, children suffering from ADHD should consume regular meals, even if they don't feel hungry. This will help to stabilize their blood sugar levels as well as reduce the effect stimulants have on the brain.
Some herbal supplements have been shown to improve attention and focus in those with ADHD. These supplements can be used alone or in combination with other natural products and ADHD medication. For instance Ginkgo biloba, ginkgo biloba, and French maritime pine bark extract (Pycnogenol) have been found to boost levels of dopamine, which calms hyperactivity. Passionflower extract is also comparable to methylphenidate in treating ADHD symptoms.
3. Improve Your Sleep
A good night's sleep is the most natural cure for ADHD in children and adults. Insufficient sleep can cause mood and attention issues, so it's crucial to make sure you get the right amount of sleep every night.
Consult your physician If you're having difficulty sleeping or staying asleep. There are many reasons why you might be having trouble with sleep, such as sleep disturbances or medications that interfere with the body's ability to relax.
Additionally, sleep issues may also arise when you take stimulant medications for ADHD. Some studies suggest that certain stimulant medications such as Ritalin and Adderall can affect your sleep. You can combat sleep problems by taking your medication at the same time throughout the day, not drinking caffeine, and taking naps during the daytime. Also, ask for treatment for add in adults -hour-doses instead meds.
Sleep deprivation can cause difficulty in concentrating and focusing. If you are struggling to concentrate, try getting the recommended 10-11 hours of sleep per night for children. It can also help to establish a routine for bedtime and ensure your bedroom is dark and silent.
It's also important to limit sugar intake and avoid foods you know trigger symptoms, like processed or fast food. A balanced diet can help ease your symptoms and give more energy.
Herbal supplements and herbs can aid, particularly when you're deficient in vitamins. Melatonin has been found to treat ADHD-induced sleeplessness as well as herbal remedies such as Korean red ginseng (Pycnogenol) Ginkgo, ginseng, and French maritime pine bark extract can reduce ADHD symptoms. (14) However, more research is needed and you should consult your physician before taking any supplements or herbal treatments.
4. Meditation
The brain, like muscles, requires exercised in order to remain healthy. Meditation can help build the focus region of the brain. It teaches people how to be aware of their own thoughts and feelings and helps people to bring their wandering thoughts back into the present moment.
Meditation can also aid in balancing brain neurotransmitter levels. This can help alleviate ADHD symptoms. This is important since low levels of dopamine are often associated with the condition and meditation has been proven to boost the production of dopamine in the brain.
The most important thing to make meditation work is consistency. It's important, just like exercising, to adhere to a schedule. Find a meditation partner that will keep you accountable is also beneficial. This can make it easier to stay on top of a daily routine. You can also test various methods of meditation until you discover the one that works best for you.
Aside from meditation, there are also several herbal remedies that can improve cognitive function. These herbs can be consumed in capsule form, or they can be eaten as food. Some of the most well-known herbs that are used to treat ADHD include Ashwagandha, Gingko Biloba, and Bacopa monnieri.
These natural treatments can help you manage your ADHD symptoms effectively without the use of medication. However, it's important to talk to your doctor prior to trying any new techniques or supplements. Medication and therapy are still the most effective methods to treat ADHD but these natural remedies can be an excellent complement to your treatment program. If you make sleep a priority and eating a healthy diet, as well as getting regular meditation sessions you'll be on your way to tackling your ADHD symptoms naturally.
5. Exercise
Many people with ADHD struggle to keep their bodies and brains active. This is what contributes to their impulsive and hyperactive behavior. By increasing your physical activity, you will assist your brain to focus. You may also observe that it reduces your symptoms and enhances your ability to control your emotions and behaviors.
Additionally, physical activity has been proven to increase dopamine levels in the brain, which is a chemical that enhances attention and focus. It also helps reduce anxiety and depression, which are often linked to ADHD. Exercise is more effective at reducing anxiety, depression and ADHD in adults than medications.
Try to get at minimum 30 minutes of moderate intensity exercise each day, four or five days per week. You can try activities like dancing, running, biking, or swimming. It is crucial to choose an activity that you are interested in and keep up with. Selecting an activity that you enjoy can inspire you to do it, especially when you exercise in an environment with a group of people.
Meditation and yoga are two other natural therapies that can help ADHD. Both of these have been proven to increase dopamine levels and improve mood in healthy individuals. They can also assist in improve self-control, which is often an issue for children and teenagers with ADHD.
These natural treatments can be used as a complement to or in lieu of the prescription medications prescribed by your physician. Consult your physician prior to making any lifestyle changes or experimenting with new products. They can provide more information about the best treatments for you.