ADHD Natural Treatment For Children and Adults With ADHD
While medication is the primary component of treatment for ADHD but it's not the only option. Patients with ADHD may benefit from behavior therapy, dietary changes and supplements.
Stimulants enhance concentration and focus through the production of brain chemicals, norepinephrine as well as dopamine. If stimulants cause undesirable adverse effects, non-stimulants could be employed.
1. Eating Clean
Many people believe that diet can influence ADHD symptoms. Research has shown that certain foods make kids with ADHD be more hyperactive while other foods improve or reduce symptoms. This is why a lot of parents attempt to treat their children's ADHD by eating a healthy diet.
Some ADHD experts suggest avoiding a long list of chemical and food items that are commonly found in processed foods. Instead, they recommend eating an wholesome diet consisting of whole foods, and preferably non-processed or minimally processed food, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, healthful fats, and lean proteins. This kind of diet can help to maintain a stable mood and balance blood sugar.
Other ADHD natural remedies include nutritional supplements and herbs. Iron deficiency for instance is common among ADHD children, and supplementation may alleviate symptoms. Ginkgo biloba and passionflower extracts have been shown to be effective in treating ADHD symptoms.
Elimination diets may also be helpful for some children and adults suffering from ADHD. These diets are based on the belief that certain foods, like artificial sweeteners and preservatives can cause hyperactivity. Some people are also sensitive to caffeine which is present in energy drinks, sodas and coffee drinks.
Another option is to have a food allergy or sensitivity test performed. These tests can be done in a medical clinic or at your home. Once food sensitivities or allergies are established then the person can begin an elimination diet to pinpoint food items that cause problems. A registered dietitian will help in making the process easier, and ensure the child receives adequate nutrition and eliminates the food that causes problems. This is an excellent alternative to medications for those who don't like them or don't want to take them on a long-term basis.
2. Avoiding Allergies and Sensitivities
Many kids and adults with ADHD have food allergies and sensitivities. Eliminating these food items may aid in reducing ADHD symptoms. Food dyes, MSG, a preservative found in processed foods, and artificial sweeteners are among the foods to stay clear of. Nitrites, found in canned lunchmeat and other foods can also cause harm because they interfere with the hormones that control the central nervous system, causing an increase in heart rate and blood pressure and can cause breathing problems.
Tests for food allergies are crucial to determine which foods cause ADHD symptoms. When the food or ingredient that triggers the symptoms is identified and eliminated from the diet. This will allow the body to recover and return to normal functioning. A single-food diet is utilized to remove a food or food ingredient from the diet. Then, it is reintroduced to see how the symptoms are affected. This method can be difficult to use and should only be used under the supervision of a registered dietitian or a doctor.
In addition to eliminating foods that are known to cause problems, children suffering from ADHD should be encouraged to consume regular meals, even if they don't feel hungry. This will help stabilize their blood sugar levels and decrease the effects of stimulants on the brain.
It has been shown that herbal supplements can help improve concentration and attention among people who suffer from ADHD. These supplements can be taken as a stand-alone or in conjunction with other natural products and ADHD medications. For example Ginkgo biloba and French maritime pine bark extract (Pycnogenol) have been proven to boost levels of dopamine. This helps to calm hyperactivity. Passionflower extract is also similar to methylphenidate in treating ADHD symptoms.
3. Get Better Sleep
Sleeping enough is one of the most important natural treatment for adults and children with ADHD. Insufficient sleep can exacerbate mood and attention issues, so it's important to prioritize getting the right amount of rest each night.
Consult your physician If you're having difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep. You may be experiencing difficulty sleeping for a variety of reasons, including medication that interferes with your body's ability relax or sleep.
Sleep problems can also occur when you take stimulant medications for ADHD. Certain studies suggest that stimulant medications like Ritalin and Adderall may affect your sleep. You can fight sleep issues by taking your medication at the same time each day, not drinking caffeine, and napping during the day. Also, you can ask for four-hour doses instead of extended release medication.
Lack of sleep can make concentrating and focusing difficult. If you are struggling, consider getting the recommended 10-11 hours of sleep per night of sleep for children. Making a routine of bedtime and keeping your room dark and quiet can aid, too.
You should also limit the amount of sugar you consume and avoid foods that you know cause 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 particularly if you're deficient. Melatonin has been shown to treat ADHD-induced sleeplessness as well as herbal remedies such as Korean red ginseng (Pycnogenol), ginkgo, and French maritime pine bark extract can reduce ADHD symptoms. (14) But more research is needed and you should consult with your doctor prior to making any herbal or supplement treatments.
4. Meditation
Similar to a muscle, the brain needs exercise in order to stay healthy. Meditation is a way to strengthen the focus part of the brain. It helps people observe their thoughts and feelings and helps them bring their wandering thoughts back to the present.
Meditation can also aid in balancing the levels of brain neurotransmitters. This can alleviate ADHD symptoms. Meditation has been shown to boost dopamine production in the brain which is crucial since low levels of dopamine can be associated with ADHD.
The key to making meditation successful is consistency. It's essential, just as when exercising, to stick to a routine. It's also helpful to have an accountability partner to meditate with. This will make it easier to keep up with the daily routine. It's also a good idea to try different ways of meditation until you've found the one that is most suitable for you.
Meditation is not the only method to boost cognitive performance. Herbal remedies can also be used. The herbs can be eaten as food or in capsule form. Some of the most popular herbs used to treat ADHD include Ashwagandha, Gingko Biloba, and Bacopa monnieri.
Adding these natural treatments to your routine can be a good method to control your ADHD symptoms without the need for medication. However, it's important to talk to your doctor before attempting any new methods or supplements. Medication and therapy are still the best ways to treat ADHD however, these natural methods are a great addition to your treatment plan. By putting sleep first, eating clean, and getting regular meditation sessions and you'll be on your way to managing your ADHD symptoms naturally.
5. Exercise
Many people suffering from ADHD have difficulty keeping their bodies and minds active. This is a large factor in their hyperactive and impulsive behavior. By increasing your physical activity, you can help your brain to refocus. You might also notice that it reduces your symptoms and increases your ability to control your mood and behavior.
Exercise has also been shown to increase dopamine levels in your brain, a chemical that improves focus and attention. It can also reduce depression and anxiety, which are often associated with ADHD. Exercise is more effective in reducing anxiety, depression and ADHD in adults than medication.
Make sure you exercise at minimum 30 I Am Psychiatry minutes per day for four or five days each week. You can try swimming, dancing, or running. It is important to pick an activity that you will stay with and enjoy. You can be motivated to exercise if select an activity you enjoy, especially if it is in a group.
Another natural remedy that can aid those suffering from ADHD is yoga and meditation. Both yoga and meditation have been proven to boost mood and boost dopamine levels in healthy individuals. They can also improve self-control which is a challenge for many teens and children with ADHD.
These natural remedies can be used in addition to or alternative to the medications prescribed by your doctor. However, you must consult with your physician prior to making significant lifestyle changes or experimenting with new products. They can offer more information on the best treatment options for you.