ADD/ADHD and your Diet

ADD or ADHD, otherwise known as Attention Deficit Disorder or Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder are a group of disorders, that are related to mechanisms in the central nervous system.  While some of the characteristics of these disorders are thought to be innate, others are believed to be at least impacted by one's diet, environmental allergies and other more avoidable pollutants.

In recent years, the number of children diagnosed with some form of this disorder has reached record proportions.  It is in fact the fastest growing childhood disorder in the United States.  Up to ten percent of all children of school age are now being diagnosed with this disorder.

A whopping ten times more boys than girls are diagnosed with ADD or ADHD.  The disorders can cause a variety of difficulties in terms of learning and can be a real stressor for both the individual and the families involved.

ADD or ADHD children are usually of average or even above average intelligence.  More often than not the child is also highly creative.  As such, the disorder can be over diagnosed in these types of children.

Some research is beginning to show a correlation between symptoms and diet.  Adding these nutrients to your child's diet can have positive effects.

Calcium and magnesium are crucial because they have a calming effect on the central nervous system.  GABBA likewise calms the body and helps to offer tranquility to the mind.

Vitamin B complex vitamins are also known to help brain function.  These can help to regulate adrenal gland function which can be thrown off balance with these disorders.

EFA's are also found to be deficient in people with this spectrum of disorders.  Adding Essential fatty acids like borage oil, fish oil, or primrose oil to your child's diet can be greatly beneficial.

Fruits and vegetables should be the mainstay of the diet combined with healthy breads, cereals and crackers that are made from rice or oats.  Cold water fish, tuna, salmon and herring are also important. 

High protein diets have also been found to be helpful as is avoiding non-complex carbs.  Be sure that your child is getting a good dose of dietary fibre and avoiding simple carbohydrates that translate into glucose, fructose or other sugars.

Limiting dairy might also be wise.  Some kids react strongly to dairy products and find that the symptoms and behavioural difficulties are made worse by their consumption.