ADHD Natural Treatment For Children and Adults With ADHD
While medication is the primary component of treatment for ADHD, it's not the only option. The condition can be treated with behavior therapy, dietary changes and supplements.
Stimulants aid in improving concentration and focus by boosting the brain chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine. Non-stimulants can be used when stimulants can cause undesirable adverse side effects.
1. Eating Clean
Many people believe diet can have a major impact on ADHD symptoms. Studies have shown that certain foods can make ADHD kids hyperactive while others help or lessen symptoms. This is the reason why many parents attempt to treat their children's ADHD through food.
Some ADHD experts suggest avoiding a long list of foods and chemicals that are present in processed foods. Instead, they recommend an wholesome diet consisting of whole foods, and preferably unprocessed or minimally processed foods such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains, healthful fats, and lean proteins. This kind of diet will help to balance blood sugar levels and keep the mood in check.
Other ADHD natural remedies include nutritional supplements and herbs. For example, iron deficiency is often seen in kids with ADHD supplementation may alleviate symptoms. Ginkgo biloba extract and passionflower extract are both effective in treating ADHD symptoms.
Some adults and children with ADHD might benefit from elimination diets. These diets are based on the belief that certain foods, like artificial sweeteners or preservatives can cause hyperactivity. In addition, certain people might be sensitive to caffeine, which can be found in a variety of coffee drinks, sodas, and energy drinks.
A test for sensitivity or food allergies is another alternative. These tests can be performed at a clinic, or at your home. When food allergies or sensitivities are identified and the individual is able to begin an elimination diet to identify problem foods. A registered dietitian will make the process easier and ensure that the child is getting sufficient nutrition while avoiding problematic foods. This is an excellent alternative to medications for those who do not like them or don't want to take them on a long-term basis.
2. Avoiding Allergies and Sensitivities
Many children and adults with ADHD suffer from food allergies and sensitivities. Eliminating these food items can aid in reducing ADHD symptoms. Food dyes, MSG, a preservative found in processed foods, and artificial sweeteners are all foods to avoid. Nitrites found in lunchmeat and some canned foods can also be harmful because they disrupt the hormones that regulate the central nervous system, which increases blood pressure and heart rate and causes breathing issues.
Testing for food allergies is essential to determine which foods cause ADHD symptoms. When the food or ingredient 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 functioning. A single-food diet is used to eliminate a food item or food ingredient from the diet. Then, it is reintroduced to determine how symptoms are affected. This method of identifying food allergies can be difficult and should always be performed under the supervision of a physician or registered dietitian.
Children with ADHD should eat a regular diet even if it does not cause them to feel hungry. This will help maintain their blood sugar levels and reduce the effects that stimulants have on the brain.
Some herbal supplements have been proven to increase attention and focus for those suffering from ADHD. These supplements can be used as a stand-alone or in combination other natural products and ADHD medication. Pycnogenol (French maritime pine bark extract) and Ginkgo biloba have been proven to boost dopamine levels which can reduce hyperactivity. Passionflower extract can be compared to methylphenidate as a treatment for ADHD symptoms.
3. Improve Your Sleep
Sleeping well is the most effective natural treatment for ADHD for both adults and children. Insufficient sleep can exacerbate attention and mood issues, so it's crucial to make sure you get the right amount of rest every night.
If you're having trouble falling asleep or stay asleep, consult your doctor. You could be having trouble sleeping for many reasons such as medication that interferes with your body's ability relax or sleep.
Sleep problems can also arise when you are taking stimulant medication for ADHD. Some studies suggest that certain stimulant drugs like Ritalin and Adderall may affect your sleep. You can fight sleep issues by taking your medication at the same time every day, avoiding caffeine and napping during the daytime. Also, you can ask for four-hour-doses instead of extended release medication.
Lack of sleep can make it difficult to concentrate and focus. If you're struggling, try to get the recommended 10-11 hours per night of sleep for children. It is also helpful to establish a routine bedtime routine and keep your room dark and silent.
You should also limit your consumption of sugar and stay clear of foods that you know trigger symptoms like processed or fast food. A balanced diet can help ease your symptoms and provide you with more energy.
Herbal supplements can help especially if you're vitamin deficient. There are studies that suggest that melatonin could treat ADHD-induced insomnia, while other herbal medicines such as Korean red ginseng, ginkgo biloba French maritime pine bark extract (Pycnogenol) and bacopa monnieri may reduce inattentive ADHD symptoms. (14) However, more research is required and you should check with your doctor before trying any supplements or herbal treatments.
4. Meditation
The brain, just like muscles, needs to be trained to stay healthy. Meditation is a way to build the focus area of the brain. It teaches people how to be aware of their own thoughts and emotions and helps them to bring their thoughts back to the present moment.
Meditation can also help to regulate brain neurotransmitter levels. This can help alleviate ADHD symptoms. This is crucial because low levels of dopamine are often linked to the condition and meditation has been proven to boost dopamine production in the brain.
Consistency is the most important factor to success meditation. It's important, just like exercising, to adhere to a routine. It's also helpful to find an accountability partner to share your thoughts with. This can make it easier to keep up with your daily routine. You can also experiment with various methods of meditation until you find the one that works best for you.
Meditation isn't the only way to improve cognitive performance. Herbal remedies are also a possibility. The herbs can be taken in capsule form or consumed as food. Ashwagandha is among the most sought-after herbal remedies for ADHD.
These natural treatments can help you manage your ADHD symptoms without medication. It is essential to consult with your doctor before attempting any new techniques or supplements. These natural treatments are a great addition to medication and therapy for ADHD. By making sleep a priority and eating a healthy diet, as well as taking regular meditation classes, you can be well on your way to managing your ADHD symptoms naturally.
5. Exercise
Many people with ADHD have difficulty keeping 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 notice that it helps reduce your symptoms and increases your ability to control your mood and behavior.
Exercise has also been proven to increase dopamine levels in your brain, a chemical which enhances attention and focus. It can also reduce depression and anxiety, which are typically associated with ADHD. Studies have shown that exercise is more effective than medication in reducing depression and anxiety in adults with ADHD.
Make sure you exercise at minimum 30 minutes per day for four or five days per week. You can try running, dancing or swimming. But it is important to select an activity you enjoy and can keep up with. You can be motivated to exercise if choose an activity that you enjoy, especially when you are in an group.
Another natural remedy that can aid with ADHD is meditation and yoga. treatment for adult add and meditation have been proven to boost mood and increase dopamine levels in healthy individuals. They also aid in improve self-control, which is often the biggest issue for children and teens suffering from ADHD.
You can utilize these natural treatments as a complement to or in lieu of medicines prescribed by your physician. But, it is important to consult your health care professional prior to making any significant lifestyle changes or experimenting with new products. They can provide you with more information about the best treatments available.