ADHD Natural Treatment For Children and Adults With ADHD
ADHD is not only treated by medication. The condition can be treated through behavior therapy, dietary changes and supplements.
Stimulants help improve concentration and focus by boosting the brain chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine. If stimulants have unpleasant negative side effects, non-stimulants may be used.
1. Clean eating
Many people believe that diet can influence ADHD symptoms. Research has proven that certain foods make kids with ADHD become more hyperactive, while other foods help or reduce symptoms. Many parents treat their children's ADHD with food.
Some ADHD experts recommend avoiding the list of chemicals and food items found in processed food. They recommend a diet rich in whole foods, and preferably not processed or less processed, like vegetables, fruits and whole grains. This type of diet can aid in balancing blood sugar and keep the mood in check.
Other ADHD natural treatments include nutritional supplements and herbal remedies. Iron deficiency for instance is a common problem in ADHD children and supplementation can help alleviate symptoms. Ginkgo biloba and passionflower extracts have been proven to be effective in treating ADHD symptoms.
Elimination diets could be beneficial for some children and adults with ADHD. These diets are based upon the belief that certain food items, like artificial sweeteners and preservatives can trigger hyperactivity. In addition, certain people are sensitive to caffeine, which is present in a variety of coffee drinks, sodas and energy drinks.
A test for sensitivity or food allergies is another alternative. These tests can be done at a clinic, or at your home. Once food sensitivities or allergies are established then the person can begin an elimination diet to find food items that cause problems. A registered dietitian can help to make the process simpler and ensure that the child receives adequate nutrition and eliminates the food that causes problems. This is an excellent alternative to medications for those who aren't at ease with them or do not want to take them long-term.
2. Avoiding allergies and sensitivities
Many people, including adults and children, with ADHD suffer from food allergies and sensitivities. Eliminating these food items can help decrease ADHD symptoms. Some examples of foods to be avoided are food dyes, MSG (a preservative used in processed foods) and artificial sweeteners. The nitrites found in canned foods and lunchmeat can be harmful too because they disrupt the hormones that regulate the central nervous system. This can increase blood pressure, heart rate and breathing issues.
Testing for food allergies is crucial to determine what foods cause ADHD symptoms. When treating add in adults or ingredient that triggers the symptoms is identified, it can be eliminated from the diet. This will allow the body to heal and return to normal function. A single-food elimination diet is often used, in which the food ingredient or a food item is eliminated from the diet for a specified period of time. The food is then returned and symptoms are observable. This approach can be difficult to implement and should only be used under the supervision of a registered dietitian, or a doctor.
In addition to avoiding foods that are known to cause problems, children suffering from ADHD should try to eat regular meals even if they don't feel hungry. This will aid in stabilizing their blood sugar levels and decrease the effects of stimulants on the brain.
It has been shown that some herbal supplements can help improve concentration and attention among people who suffer from ADHD. These supplements can be taken either on their own or in conjunction with other natural products and ADHD medication. Pycnogenol (French maritime pine bark extract) and ginkgo biloba were found to boost dopamine levels which can reduce hyperactivity. Additionally, the extract of passionflower has been shown to be similar to methylphenidate in reducing ADHD symptoms.
3. Achieving Better Sleep
Getting enough sleep is one of the most important adhd natural remedies for children and adults with ADHD. Insufficient sleep can exacerbate mood and attention issues, so it's crucial to make sure you get the right amount of rest every night.
If you're struggling to fall asleep or remain asleep, talk with your doctor. You could be having trouble sleeping for a variety of reasons including medications that interfere with your body's ability to relax or sleep disturbances.
Sleep problems can also happen when you are taking stimulant medication for ADHD. Certain studies suggest that stimulant drugs such as Ritalin and Adderall can affect your sleep. You can overcome sleep issues by taking your medication at the same time every day, avoiding caffeine, and naps throughout the day. Also, ask for four-hour doses instead of extended release meds.
Lack of sleep can make it difficult to concentrate and stay focused, so if you're struggling you should try to sleep the recommended 10-11 hours each night for teenagers and children. Creating a regular bedtime routine and ensuring your bedroom is dark and quiet can aid as well.
It's also essential to limit your sugar intake and avoid foods that trigger symptoms, such as processed or fast food. A balanced diet can also improve your symptoms and provide you with more energy.
Herbal supplements can be beneficial especially if you're vitamin deficient. Melatonin has been proven to treat ADHD-induced sleeplessness, while herbal medicines like Korean red ginseng (Pycnogenol), ginkgo, and French maritime pine bark extract may help to reduce ADHD symptoms. It is important to consult your doctor prior to taking any herbal or supplement treatments.
4. Meditation
The brain, like muscles, requires exercised in order to remain healthy. Meditation can help strengthen the focus region of the brain. It helps people be aware of their own thoughts and feelings, and it trains people to bring their wandering thoughts back into the present moment.
Meditation can also aid in balancing brain neurotransmitter levels. This can reduce ADHD symptoms. Meditation has been shown to boost brain dopamine levels which is crucial since low dopamine levels can be associated with ADHD.
Consistency is the key to successful meditation. It's essential, just as exercising, to adhere to a schedule. A meditation partner who can hold you accountable can also be beneficial. This can help you to stay on top of a daily routine. You can also test various meditation techniques until you find one that works for you.
In addition to meditation, there are also many herbs that can help improve cognitive functioning. The herbs can be consumed as food or taken in capsule form. Ashwagandha is one of the most popular herbal remedies for ADHD.
These natural remedies can aid you in managing your ADHD symptoms without taking medication. It is important to talk with your doctor prior to trying any new techniques or supplements. These natural treatments are a great complement to therapy and medication for ADHD. If you make sleep a priority and eating a healthy diet, as well as having regular meditation sessions you'll be on the way to reducing your ADHD symptoms naturally.
5. Exercise
Many people with ADHD have difficulty keeping their brains and body active. This is what contributes to their impulsive and hyperactive behavior. By increasing your physical activity, you will aid your brain in refocusing. You may also notice that it decreases your symptoms and improves the ability to manage your mood and behavior.
In addition, physical exercise has been proven to boost dopamine levels in the brain, an ingredient that can improve concentration and attention. It also helps reduce anxiety and depression which are frequently linked to ADHD. Studies have demonstrated that exercise is more effective than medication in reducing depression and anxiety in adults suffering from ADHD.
Try to exercise at least 30 minutes a day for four or five days per week. You can choose to try swimming, dancing or running. But it is essential to select an activity you love and are able to be committed to. Selecting an activity that you enjoy can help you get motivated to complete it, particularly when you exercise in a social group.
Another natural treatment that can help those suffering from ADHD is meditation and yoga. Both meditation and yoga have been shown to boost mood and increase dopamine levels in healthy people. They also aid in improve self-control, which is often a core challenge for kids and teens suffering from ADHD.
You can utilize these natural treatments as a supplement or as a substitute for medications prescribed by your doctor. Talk to your doctor prior to making any lifestyle changes or trying out new products. They can provide more information regarding the best treatments for you.