ADHD Natural Treatment For Children and Adults With ADHD
ADHD isn't just treated by medication. The condition can be treated with behavior therapy, dietary changes, and supplements.
Stimulants aid in improving concentration and focus by boosting brain chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine. Non-stimulants can be used when stimulants cause unpleasant adverse effects.
1. Eating clean
Many people believe that diet can play a major role in ADHD symptoms. Research has shown certain foods can make ADHD children hyperactive, while other foods improve or reduce symptoms. This is the reason why many parents seek to treat their children's ADHD through food.
Some ADHD experts advise to avoid a lengthy list of foods and chemicals that are found in processed foods. They recommend a diet high in whole foods, particularly unprocessed or minimally processed, such as vegetables, fruits and whole grains. This type of diet helps to maintain a steady mood and regulate blood sugar.
Other ADHD natural remedies include herbal supplements and nutritional supplements. Iron deficiency for instance is common among ADHD children, and supplementation may alleviate symptoms. Ginkgo biloba extract and passionflower extract are both effective in treating ADHD symptoms.
Some children and adults with ADHD may benefit from elimination diets. They are based on the belief that certain foods like artificial sweeteners and preservatives can cause hyperactivity in certain people. Some people are also sensitive to caffeine, which is in sodas, energy drinks, and coffee drinks.
A test for sensitivity or food allergies is another option. This can be done in a clinic or at your home. When food allergies or sensitivities are established and the individual is able to begin an elimination diet to pinpoint problem foods. A registered dietitian can facilitate the process and ensure that the child is getting adequate nutrition and avoiding problematic foods. This is an excellent alternative to medication for those who do not like them or don't want to use them on a long-term basis.
2. Avoiding Allergies and sensitivities
Many people, including adults and children, with ADHD suffer from food sensitivities and allergies. Eliminating these food items can help decrease ADHD symptoms. Food dyes, MSG, a preservative found in processed foods, and artificial sweeteners are all things to stay clear of. The nitrites found in lunchmeat and canned food can be harmful too because they disrupt the hormones that regulate the central nervous system. This can increase blood pressure, heart rate and breathing problems.
Food allergy testing is essential to determine what foods trigger ADHD symptoms. Once the food or additive that is causing the symptoms is identified and eliminated, it can be removed from the diet. This will allow the body to heal and return to normal function. A single-food diet is a method 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 difficult and should be conducted under the supervision of a doctor or registered dietitian.
Children with ADHD must eat regularly even if it doesn't make them 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 proven to increase attention and focus 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 levels of dopamine that calm hyperactivity. Passionflower extract can be compared to methylphenidate as a treatment for ADHD symptoms.
3. Improve Your Sleep
A good night's sleep is among the most important natural treatments for adults and children suffering from ADHD. Lack of sleep can lead to increased attention and mood problems, so it is important to get the right amount of sleep 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 medications that interfere with your body's ability relax or sleep.
Sleep problems can also arise when you take stimulant medications for ADHD. Certain studies suggest that stimulant medications such as Ritalin and Adderall could affect your sleep. You can overcome sleep issues by taking your medication at the same time every day, avoiding caffeine and daytime napping, and requesting four-hour doses instead of extended release medication.
Lack of sleep can make concentrating and focusing difficult. If you're struggling with focusing, try getting the recommended 10-11 hours of sleep per night of sleep for children. It can also help to establish a routine bedtime routine and ensure that your bedroom is quiet and dark.
It's also important to limit sugar intake and avoid foods that trigger symptoms, like processed or fast foods. A balanced diet can improve your symptoms and provide more energy.
Herbal supplements and herbal remedies can also help, especially those who are vitamin deficient. Melatonin has been proven to reduce sleeplessness due to ADHD as well as herbal remedies such as Korean red Ginseng (Pycnogenol) and ginkgo and French maritime pine bark extract may help to reduce ADHD symptoms. (14) However, more research is needed, so you should always check with your doctor before making any herbal or supplement treatments.
4.
Similar to a muscle the brain needs to be exercised in order to stay healthy. Meditation is a way to strengthen the focus part of the brain. It teaches people to observe their thoughts and feelings and helps them bring their wandering thoughts back to the present.
Meditation can also aid in balancing brain neurotransmitter levels. This can alleviate ADHD symptoms. This is crucial since low levels of dopamine are frequently associated with the condition and meditation has been proven 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 stick to it. A meditation partner who will keep you accountable is also beneficial. This will help you maintain a routine for your day. It's also an excellent idea to test different methods of meditation until you find the one that is most suitable for you.
Meditation is not the only way to improve cognitive performance. Herbal remedies can also be utilized. 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 an effective method to control your ADHD symptoms without the use of medication. It is essential to consult with your physician prior to attempting any new strategies or supplements. These natural treatments can be a great complement to treatment and medication for ADHD. You can reduce your ADHD symptoms by focusing on sleeping, eating healthy, and meditating regularly.
5. Exercise
Many people with ADHD struggle to keep their bodies and minds active. This is a large part of what causes their hyperactive and impulsive behavior. You can help your brain to refocus by increasing your physical activity. You may also observe that it reduces your symptoms and increases your ability to manage your emotions and behaviors.
Exercise has also been proven to increase the dopamine levels in your brain, a substance that improves focus and attention. It can also help reduce anxiety and depression that are often related to ADHD. Exercise is more effective at decreasing depression, anxiety and ADHD in adults than medications.
Try to exercise for at minimum 30 minutes per day for four or five days a week. You can take on activities like dancing, running, biking, or swimming. It is essential to choose an activity that you will stay with and enjoy. Choosing an activity you love can inspire you to complete it, particularly when you are part of a social group.
Another natural remedy that can aid those suffering from ADHD is meditation and yoga. Both meditation and yoga have been proven to boost mood and increase dopamine levels in healthy people. They also aid in self-control, which is a major issue for a lot of kids and teens with ADHD.
These natural remedies can be used in addition to or alternative to the prescribed medications by your physician. Consult your doctor before making check here any lifestyle changes or trying out new products. They can provide more information about the best treatment options for you.