ADHD Natural Treatment For Children and Adults With ADHD
ADHD is not only treated by medication. People suffering from the condition may also benefit from behavioral therapy, diet changes and supplements.
Stimulants aid in improving concentration and focus by boosting the brain chemicals norepinephrine and dopamine. Non-stimulants may be used if stimulants cause unpleasant adverse effects.
1. Eating Clean
Many people believe that diet can be a significant factor in ADHD symptoms. Research has proven that certain foods make kids with ADHD act more hyperactive, while other foods improve or reduce symptoms. This is why many parents try to treat their children's ADHD through food.
Some ADHD experts recommend not to consume a large number of foods and chemicals that are present in processed foods. Instead, they recommend eating healthy, whole foods, with a preference for non-processed or minimally processed food such as vegetables, fruits whole grains, healthy fats and lean proteins. This kind of diet can help to maintain a steady mood and regulate blood sugar levels.
Herbs and nutritional supplements are also effective natural ADHD treatment options. For instance, iron deficiency is often seen in kids with ADHD and supplements can help alleviate symptoms. Ginkgo biloba and passionflower extract have been proven effective in treating ADHD symptoms.
Some adults and children with ADHD may benefit from elimination diets. These diets are based on a belief that certain foods such as artificial sweeteners or preservatives, can trigger hyperactivity. Additionally, some people might be sensitive to caffeine, which can be found in a variety of beverages like sodas, coffee and energy drinks.
add and treatment or sensitivity testing is another alternative. The tests can be conducted in a clinic or at your home. Once food sensitivities or allergies are established and the individual is able to begin an elimination diet to identify food items that cause problems. A registered dietitian can assist to make the process easier, and ensure the child is getting enough nutrition, while removing the problematic food. This is a great alternative to medication for those who don't like them or don't want to use them for a long time.
2. Avoiding allergies and sensitivities
Many kids and adults with ADHD have food sensitivities and allergies. Eliminating these food items can help decrease ADHD symptoms. Some examples of foods that should be avoided include food dyes, MSG (a preservative used in processed food items), and artificial sweeteners. Nitrites found in lunchmeat and some canned foods can also be harmful as they alter the hormones that control the central nervous system, which can increase blood pressure and heart rate and can cause breathing problems.
Tests for food allergies are crucial to determine what foods cause ADHD symptoms. Once the ingredient or food that triggers the symptoms is identified, it can be eliminated from the diet. This will allow your 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 introduced back to see how the symptoms are affected. This method of identifying food allergies can be a challenge and should be conducted under the supervision of a registered dietitian.
In addition to eliminating foods that have been proven to cause problems, children suffering from ADHD should take regular meals even if they do not feel hungry. This will aid in stabilizing blood sugar levels and decrease the effects of stimulants on their brains.
It has been demonstrated that certain herbal supplements can increase concentration and attention among people who suffer from ADHD. These supplements can be used alone or in combination other natural products and ADHD medication. For instance Ginkgo biloba and French maritime pine bark extract (Pycnogenol) have been proven to increase levels of dopamine, which calms hyperactivity. Passionflower extract is also comparable to methylphenidate in treating ADHD symptoms.
3. Get Better Sleep
Sleeping enough is among the most important natural treatments for children and adults with ADHD. Insufficient sleep can exacerbate mood and attention issues, so it's important to ensure that you get the proper amount of sleep every night.
Talk to your doctor If you're having trouble getting to sleep or staying asleep. You could be having trouble sleeping due to a variety of causes such as medication that interferes with your body's ability relax or sleep.
In addition, sleep problems can occur when you take stimulant medications for ADHD. Some studies suggest that certain stimulant drugs such as Ritalin and Adderall can affect your sleep. You can fight sleep problems by taking your medication at the same time each day, avoiding caffeine and naps during the day. Also, ask for four-hour-doses instead medication.
Sleep deprivation can make it harder to focus and concentrate, so if you're struggling, try to get the recommended 10-11 hours of sleep per night for children and teens. It can also help to establish a routine for bedtime and ensure your bedroom is quiet and dark.
It's also important to limit the intake of sugar and avoid foods you know cause symptoms, such as fast or processed foods. A balanced diet can also improve your symptoms and give you more energy.
Herbal supplements can be beneficial especially if you're vitamin deficient. Some studies suggest melatonin can help with insomnia caused by ADHD, and other herbal remedies like Korean red ginseng, ginkgo biloba French maritime pine bark extract (Pycnogenol) and bacopa monnieri could help to reduce the intensity of ADHD symptoms. It is essential to talk with your doctor before taking any supplement or herbal treatment.
4. Meditation
Like muscles the brain needs to be exercised to maintain its health. Meditation can help strengthen the focus area of the brain. It helps people observe their own thoughts and emotions and teaches people to bring their thoughts back to the present moment.
Meditation can also help balance the brain's neurotransmitter levels, which can help alleviate ADHD symptoms. Meditation has been proven to increase brain dopamine production which is crucial since low dopamine levels can be associated with ADHD.
The key to making meditation successful is regularity. It's important, just like with exercise to stick to a schedule. It's also helpful to have an accountability partner to meditate with. This can help you to stick to the daily routine. It's also a good idea to try different ways of meditation until you discover the one that is most suitable for you.
Meditation isn't the only way to improve cognitive function. Herbal remedies are also a possibility. These herbs can be consumed in capsules or consumed as food. Ashwagandha is one of the most sought-after herbal remedies for ADHD.
These natural treatments can help you manage your ADHD symptoms without the use of medication. It's important to consult your doctor before attempting any new methods or supplements. Therapy and medication are the best ways to treat ADHD however, these natural treatments are a great addition to your treatment plan. By making sleep a priority and eating a healthy diet, as well as getting regular meditation sessions you'll be on your way to managing your ADHD symptoms naturally.
5. Exercise
Many people with ADHD struggle to keep their bodies and minds active. This is a major factor in the hyperactive and impulsive behavior. By increasing your physical activity, you will help your brain to refocus. You may be able to see that it reduces your symptoms and increases your ability to control your emotions and behaviors.
Furthermore, physical exercise has been shown to increase dopamine levels in the brain, which is a chemical that enhances attention and focus. It also helps reduce depression and anxiety, which are often linked to ADHD. Exercise is more effective in reducing anxiety, depression and ADHD in adults than medication.
Try to exercise at minimum 30 minutes per day for four or five days each week. You can choose to try running, dancing or swimming. It is essential to choose an activity that you will stay with and enjoy. Picking an activity you enjoy will help you stay motivated to complete it, particularly if you work out in a social group.
Another natural treatment that can be beneficial with ADHD is meditation and yoga. Both have been proven to boost dopamine levels and improve mood in healthy people. They also aid in self-control which is a challenge for a lot of kids and teens with ADHD.
You can utilize these natural treatments as a supplement or in lieu of medicines prescribed by your physician. However, you should always consult your health care professional prior to making any major lifestyle changes or using new products. They can offer more information on the best treatment options for you.