ADHD Natural Treatment For Children and Adults With ADHD
While medication is the cornerstone of treatment for ADHD but it's not the only option. People suffering from the condition may also benefit from behavioral therapy, diet modifications, and supplements.
Stimulants help improve concentration and focus by increasing the brain chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine. Non-stimulants may be used if stimulants trigger unpleasant adverse side effects.
1. Healthy eating
Many people believe that diet can influence ADHD symptoms. Research has shown certain foods can make ADHD kids hyperactive while others can reduce or improve symptoms. Many parents treat their children's ADHD through food.
Some ADHD experts advise not to consume a large number of foods and chemicals that are present in processed foods. Instead, treatment of add recommend eating a healthy diet of whole foods, and preferably unprocessed or minimally processed foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, healthful fats, and lean proteins. This type of diet will help to balance blood sugar levels and keep the mood in check.
Herbs and nutritional supplements can also be effective natural ADHD treatments. For example, iron deficiency is often observed in children with ADHD supplementation may alleviate symptoms. Ginkgo biloba extract and passionflower extract are effective in treating ADHD symptoms.
Some adults and children with ADHD may benefit from elimination diets. These are based on the belief that certain foods such as artificial sweeteners and preservatives, can trigger hyperactivity in some people. Certain people are also sensitive to caffeine, which is found in energy drinks, sodas and coffee drinks.
A food allergy or sensitivity testing is another option. These tests can be done in a medical clinic or at your home. Once food allergies or sensitivities have been identified, the person can begin an elimination diet to determine the foods that are problematic. A registered dietitian will to make the process simpler and ensure that the child is receiving adequate nutrition while eliminating problem foods. This is an excellent alternative to taking medication for those who are not comfortable with them or don't intend to use them long-term.
2. Avoiding allergies and sensitivities
Many children and adults with ADHD suffer from food allergies and sensitivities. Eliminating these foods may help decrease ADHD symptoms. Some examples of foods to be avoided are food dyes, MSG (a preservative used in processed foods), and artificial sweeteners. The nitrites found in lunchmeat and canned food can be harmful too, as they interfere with the hormones that regulate the central nervous system. This causes an increase in blood pressure, heart rate, and breathing issues.
Testing for food allergies is crucial to determine which foods trigger ADHD symptoms. When the food or ingredient that triggers the symptoms is identified, it can be eliminated from the diet. This will allow the body to recover and return to normal functioning. A single-food elimination diet is often employed, where an ingredient in food or a food is eliminated from the diet for a specified period of time. Then, it is reintroduced to determine how symptoms are affected. This approach 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 have been proven to cause problems, children with ADHD should take regular meals even if they don't feel hungry. This will help stabilize blood sugar levels and reduce the effects that stimulants can have on the brain.
Certain herbal supplements have been found to increase focus and attention for those suffering from ADHD. These supplements can be taken on their own or in conjunction with other natural products and ADHD medication. Pycnogenol (French maritime pine bark extract) and ginkgo biloba have been shown to increase dopamine levels which can reduce hyperactivity. Passionflower extract is also similar to methylphenidate for treating ADHD symptoms.
3. Improve Your Sleep
Adequate sleep is the best natural treatment for ADHD in both adults and children. Insufficient sleep can exacerbate mood and attention issues, so it is important to get the right amount of sleep each night.
If you're struggling to fall asleep or stay asleep, speak to your doctor. You could be having trouble sleeping due to a variety of causes including medications that interfere with your body's ability relax or sleep.
Additionally, sleep issues can also occur when you are taking stimulant medications for ADHD. Certain studies suggest that stimulant medicines such as Ritalin and Adderall can affect your sleep. You can fight these sleep issues by taking your medication at the same time throughout the day, avoiding caffeine, and naps throughout the day. Also, you can ask for four-hour-doses instead of extended release medications.
Sleep deprivation can make it difficult to concentrate and focus, so if you're struggling, try to get the recommended 10-11 hours each night for teenagers and children. It can also help establish a routine for bedtime and keep your room quiet and dark.
It's also essential to limit your sugar intake and avoid foods you know trigger symptoms, such as fast or processed foods. A balanced diet can improve your symptoms and give more energy.
Herbal supplements can be beneficial particularly if you're deficient. Melatonin has been proven to treat ADHD-induced sleeplessness and insomnia, while herbal remedies like Korean red ginseng (Pycnogenol) Ginkgo, ginseng, and French maritime pine bark extract can reduce ADHD symptoms. (14) However, more research is needed therefore you must 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 strengthen the focus part of the brain. It helps people look at their own thoughts and emotions and teaches people to bring their thoughts that wander back to the present moment.
Meditation can also help balance the neurotransmitter levels in the brain, which can ease ADHD symptoms. Meditation has been proven to boost dopamine production in the brain which is important because low dopamine levels can be associated with ADHD.
Consistency is the key to success in meditation. It's essential, just as with exercise to stick to a schedule. It's also helpful to find an accountability partner to meditate with. This can help you to stay on top of the daily routine. It's also recommended to try different methods of meditation until you find one that works well for you.
Apart from meditation, there are also several herbal remedies that can improve cognitive function. The herbs can be taken in capsules or consumed as food. Ashwagandha is one of the most well-known herbal remedies for ADHD.
These natural treatments can help you manage your ADHD symptoms effectively without medication. However, it is essential to talk to your doctor before trying any new methods or supplements. These natural treatments are a great complement to therapy and medication for ADHD. You can reduce your ADHD symptoms by focusing on sleep eating well and meditating regularly.
5. Exercise
Many people with ADHD struggle to keep their bodies and brains active. This is the reason for their impulsive and hyperactive behavior. By increasing your physical activity, it can assist your brain to focus. It is also possible that it reduces the symptoms you experience and increases your ability to control your moods and behaviors.
Exercise has also been found to boost the levels of dopamine in your brain, a chemical which enhances attention and focus. It can also help reduce depression and anxiety that are often related to ADHD. In fact, studies have shown that exercise is more effective than medication in reducing depression and anxiety in adults with ADHD.
Try to exercise for at minimum 30 minutes per day for four or five days per week. You can take on activities like running, dancing, biking or swimming. But it is important to choose an activity that you love and are able to stick with. You will be motivated to exercise when you choose an activity that you enjoy, particularly when it is part of a group.
Meditation and yoga are two other treatments that are natural that can help ADHD. Both meditation and yoga have been proven 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.
These natural remedies can be used as a complement to or substitute for the prescription medications prescribed by your physician. However, you must consult your health care professional prior to making major lifestyle changes or using new products. They can provide you with more details on the most effective treatment options.