ADHD Natural Treatment For Children and Adults With ADHD
ADHD isn't just treated by medication. People with the condition can benefit from behavior therapy, diet modifications, and supplements.
Stimulants improve focus and concentration through the production of brain chemicals norepinephrine, and dopamine. Non-stimulants are a possibility if stimulants can cause undesirable adverse effects.
1. Eating Clean
Many believe that diet may have a major impact on ADHD symptoms. Research has proven that certain foods cause children with ADHD become more hyperactive, while other foods improve or reduce symptoms. Many parents treat their children's ADHD through food.
Some ADHD experts recommend avoiding a long list of chemical and food items that are present in processed foods. Instead, they recommend eating healthy, whole foods, preferably unprocessed or with minimal processing, including fruits, vegetables whole grains, healthy fats and lean proteins. This kind of diet can help to maintain a stable mood and regulate blood sugar levels.
Other ADHD natural remedies include nutritional supplements and herbs. For example, iron deficiency is often found in children suffering from ADHD and supplements can help alleviate symptoms. Ginkgo biloba extract and passionflower extracts are both effective in treating ADHD symptoms.
Elimination diets can be helpful for some children and adults with ADHD. These diets are based on a belief that certain foods, like artificial sweeteners and preservatives can trigger hyperactivity. Some people are also sensitive to caffeine that is found in energy drinks, sodas, and coffee drinks.
add adult treatment or sensitivity test is another option. These tests can be done in a medical clinic or at your home. Once the food allergies or sensitivities are established, the person can start an elimination diet to identify problem foods. A registered dietitian can to make the process simpler and ensure that the child is receiving adequate nutrition while eliminating problem foods. This is an excellent alternative to medications for those who are not at ease with them or do not wish to take them for a long time.
2. Avoiding Allergies and Sensitivities
Many children and adults suffering from ADHD have food allergies and sensitivities. Eliminating these food items can aid in reducing ADHD symptoms. Food dyes, MSG, a preservative that is found in processed foods and artificial sweeteners are all foods to avoid. Nitrites in canned food and lunchmeat can be harmful too because they affect the hormones that regulate the central nervous system. This can increase blood pressure, heart rate and breathing problems.
The testing for food allergies is essential to determine which foods trigger ADHD symptoms. Once the food or ingredient creating symptoms has been identified it can then be removed from the diet. This allows your body to recover, and return to its normal function. A single-food diet is a method to remove a food or food ingredient from the diet. The food is then introduced back into the diet and symptoms are observable. This method of identifying food allergies can be challenging and should always be done under the supervision of a physician or registered dietitian.
Children with ADHD should eat regularly, even if it doesn't make them feel hungry. This will aid in stabilizing blood sugar levels and lessen the effects of stimulants on the brain.
Certain herbal supplements have been shown to increase focus and attention for those suffering from ADHD. These supplements can be used alone or in combination with other natural products and ADHD medication. Pycnogenol (French maritime pine bark extract) and ginkgo biloba have been shown to increase dopamine levels that calm hyperactivity. Additionally, the extract of passionflower has been proven to be similar to methylphenidate when it comes to improving ADHD symptoms.
3. Getting Better Sleep
Adequate sleep is the best natural treatment for ADHD in children and adults. Insufficient sleep can exacerbate mood and attention issues, so it's important to make sure you get the right amount of rest each night.
If you're having trouble falling asleep or stay asleep, talk with your doctor. You could be having trouble sleeping for many reasons, including medication that interferes with your body's ability relax or sleep disturbances.
Sleep problems can also happen when you take stimulant medications for ADHD. Some studies suggest that certain stimulant drugs like Ritalin and Adderall can impact your sleep. You can overcome sleep issues by taking your medication at the same time throughout the day, avoiding caffeine, and taking naps during the day. Also, request four-hour-doses instead of extended release medication.
Sleep deprivation can cause difficulty in concentrating and focusing. If you're having trouble concentrating, consider getting the recommended 10-11 hours of sleep per night for children. Establishing a routine for bedtime and keeping your room dark and quiet can aid, too.
It's also essential to limit your sugar intake and avoid foods that can cause symptoms, such as fast or processed foods. A balanced diet can improve your symptoms and give you more energy.
Herbal supplements and herbs can aid, particularly when you're deficient in vitamins. Certain studies suggest that melatonin may alleviate insomnia caused by ADHD, while other herbal medicines such as Korean red ginseng, ginkgo biloba French maritime pine bark extract (Pycnogenol), and bacopa monnieri can help reduce the intensity of ADHD symptoms. (14) But more research is needed and you should consult your physician before trying any supplements or herbal treatments.
4.
The brain, like muscles, must be active to stay healthy. Meditation is a way to build the focus area of the brain. It helps people observe their thoughts and feelings, and helps them bring their wandering thought back to the present moment.
Meditation also helps balance the brain's neurotransmitter levels which can ease ADHD symptoms. This is vital since low levels of dopamine are often associated with the condition and meditation has been shown to boost the production of dopamine in the brain.
Consistency is the key to success in meditation. Like exercise, it's essential to establish a plan and adhere to it. Finding a meditation partner who will hold your accountable is also helpful. This can help you to stay on top of a daily routine. It's also an excellent idea to test different ways of meditation until you discover one that is suitable for you.
Meditation is not the only method to boost cognitive performance. Herbal remedies can also be used. The herbs can be consumed as food or taken in capsule form. Ashwagandha is among the most well-known herbal remedies for ADHD.
Integrating these natural remedies into your routine can be a great method to control your ADHD symptoms without the need for medication. However, it is essential to talk to your doctor before attempting any new methods or supplements. These natural treatments are a great complement to therapy and medication for ADHD. By making sleep a priority and eating a healthy diet, as well as taking regular meditation classes you'll be on the way to reducing your ADHD symptoms naturally.
5. Exercise
Many people with ADHD struggle to keep their bodies and minds active. This is a large factor in their impulsive and hyperactive behavior. You can help your brain to refocus by increasing your physical activity. You may also find that it reduces symptoms and enhances the ability to control your moods and behaviors.
Exercise has also been found to increase the dopamine levels in your brain, a substance that improves focus and attention. It can also reduce anxiety and depression, which are typically associated with ADHD. In fact, studies have shown that exercise is more effective than medications in reducing depression and anxiety for adults suffering from ADHD.
Try to exercise at minimum 30 minutes per day for four or five days a week. You can choose to try activities such as biking, dancing, running or swimming. It is essential to choose an activity you can keep up with and enjoy. You can be motivated to exercise when you select an activity you like, particularly when you are in a group.
Yoga and meditation are two other natural therapies that can help ADHD. Both yoga and meditation have been shown to boost mood and increase dopamine levels in healthy people. They can also improve self-control, which is a problem for a lot of kids and teens with ADHD.
You can use these natural remedies as a complement to or in place of medications prescribed by your physician. Talk to your doctor prior to making any lifestyle changes or trying out new products. They can offer more information regarding the best treatment options for you.