Attention deficit disorders challenge many children and their families. Symptoms may disrupt learning and interfere with social interaction, and parents often grapple with the difficult decision to give their children medication to help manage their symptoms.
ADD/ADHD symptoms can often be improved with dietary changes. Food additives, colorings and preservatives commonly exacerbate symptoms. Food sensitivities may be present as well, with some of the most common food triggers being dairy, wheat, eggs and soy. Consult an experienced practitioner before removing whole food groups from your child’s diet to be certain that your child will still be getting the nutrition he or she requires.
Children with ADD may also experience difficulty regulating their blood sugar. This can be improved through eating regular meals and snacks containing fiber, protein, and healthy fats (plant oils, nuts and nut butters, avocado) throughout the day. A good place to start with dietary change is to eliminate all foods from your child’s diet that are processed or that contain refined sugar, colorings, additives and preservatives. So long frosted marshmallow breakfast cereal!
Supporting the healthy function of the organs that eliminate toxins (liver, kidneys, intestines) from the body is also very helpful for children with ADD/ADHD, and this can be done using diet, herbs and homeopathic supplements.
A variety of herbal, homeopathic and nutritional supplements can be helpful in supporting the healthy function of your child’s nervous system. A high quality fish oil supplement containing at least 200mg of DHA per serving each day is a good general recommendation. For best results you may want to consult a naturopathic doctor to determine the most appropriate supplements for your child.