ADHD Natural Treatment For Children and Adults With ADHD
ADHD is not only treated by medication. People suffering from the condition may benefit from behavior therapy, dietary changes and supplements.
Stimulants can improve focus and concentration by increasing the brain chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine. If stimulants cause unpleasant negative side effects, non-stimulants may be used.
1. Eating clean
Many people believe that diet can influence ADHD symptoms. Research has proven that certain foods can cause ADHD kids hyperactive while others improve or reduce symptoms. This is the reason why many parents attempt to treat their children's ADHD by eating a healthy diet.
Some ADHD experts recommend to avoid a lengthy list of chemical and food items that are present in processed foods. They recommend a diet rich in whole foods, preferably not processed or less processed, like fruits, vegetables and whole grains. This type of diet helps to maintain a steady mood and balance blood sugar levels.
Other ADHD natural remedies include nutritional supplements and herbal remedies. Iron deficiency for instance is a common problem in ADHD children and supplementation could help relieve symptoms. Ginkgo biloba extract and passionflower extract are effective in treating ADHD symptoms.
Some adults and children with ADHD might benefit from elimination diets. These diets are based upon the belief that certain foods such as artificial sweeteners or preservatives, can trigger hyperactivity. In addition, some people might be sensitive to caffeine, which is present in a variety of sodas, coffee drinks, and energy drinks.
Another option is to get a food allergy test or sensitivity test done. This can be done in an office or at your home. When food allergies or sensitivities are identified and the individual is able to begin an elimination diet to pinpoint problem foods. A registered dietitian can help make the process easier and ensure that the child is getting adequate nutrition while eliminating problem foods. This is a great alternative to medication for those who aren't comfortable with them or do not want to take them long-term.
2. Avoiding Allergies and Sensitivities
Many kids and adults with ADHD have food allergies and sensitivities. Eliminating these food items can help decrease ADHD symptoms. Some examples of foods that should be avoided include food colorings, MSG (a preservative used in processed food items), and artificial sweeteners. Nitrites, found in canned lunchmeat and other foods can also be harmful as they alter the hormones that regulate the central nervous system, which increases heart rate and blood pressure and can cause breathing problems.
Tests for food allergies are crucial to determine what foods cause ADHD symptoms. Once the ingredient or food that is causing the symptoms is identified, it can be eliminated from the diet. This allows your body to heal and resume normal functioning. A single-food diet is used to eliminate a food item or food ingredient from the diet. The food is then returned and the symptoms are monitored. This approach can be difficult to implement and should only be used under the supervision of an registered dietitian or doctor.
Children with ADHD should eat a regular diet even if it does not make them feel hungry. This will aid in stabilizing their blood sugar levels and decrease the effects of stimulants on the brain.
It has been shown that herbal supplements can increase focus and attention in people with ADHD. These supplements can be taken either on their own or in conjunction with other natural products and ADHD medications. Pycnogenol (French maritime pine bark extract) and Ginkgo biloba have been proven to increase dopamine levels, which calm hyperactivity. Additionally, the extract of passionflower has been proven to be comparable to methylphenidate when it comes to improving ADHD symptoms.
3. Getting Better Sleep
Sleeping well is the most effective natural treatment for ADHD for both adults and children. Insufficient sleep can exacerbate mood and attention issues, so it's important to ensure that you get the proper amount of rest each night.
If you're having trouble falling asleep or remain asleep, consult your doctor. You could be experiencing trouble sleeping due to a variety of causes including medications that interfere with your body's ability relax or sleep disturbances.
Additionally, sleep issues can also occur when you are taking stimulant medication for ADHD. Some studies suggest that certain stimulant drugs such as Ritalin and Adderall can affect your sleep. You can overcome these sleep issues by taking your medication at the same time every day, avoiding caffeine and daytime napping, and seeking four-hour doses instead of extended-release meds.
Lack of sleep can make it harder to concentrate and stay focused, so if you're struggling trying to get the recommended 10-11 hours of sleep per night for children and teens. It can also help establish a routine for bedtime and ensure your bedroom is dark and silent.
You should also limit your sugar intake and avoid foods that can cause symptoms, such as processed or fast food. A healthy diet can also help reduce your symptoms and give you more energy.
Herbal supplements and herbs may aid in reducing stress, especially if you are vitamin deficient. Some studies suggest melatonin can alleviate insomnia caused by ADHD, while other herbal remedies like Korean red Ginseng, ginkgo biloba French maritime pine bark extract (Pycnogenol) and bacopa monnieri can help reduce the intensity of ADHD symptoms. It is crucial to speak with your doctor before taking any herbal or supplement treatments.
4. Meditation
The brain, like muscles, must be active to stay healthy. Meditation can help build the focus region of the brain. It helps people observe their thoughts and emotions and trains them to bring their wandering thoughts back to the present moment.
Meditation can also help balance the levels of brain neurotransmitters. This can alleviate ADHD symptoms. This is vital because low levels of dopamine are frequently associated with the condition, and meditation has been found to increase dopamine production in the brain.
The most important thing to make meditation work is the consistency. Just like with exercise, it's essential to establish a plan and adhere to it. It's also helpful to find an accountability partner to share your thoughts with. This can help you to keep a regular routine. It's also an excellent idea to test different methods of meditation until you find the one that is most suitable for you.
Meditation isn't the only method to boost cognitive performance. Herbal remedies can also be utilized. The herbs can be taken in capsule form or eaten as food. Some of the most popular herbs that can be used to treat ADHD include Ashwagandha, Gingko Biloba, and Bacopa monnieri.
Adding these natural treatments to your routine could be a great way to manage your ADHD symptoms without the use of medication. However, it is essential to talk to your doctor prior to trying any new supplements or techniques. Treatment and medication are the best ways to treat ADHD, but these natural treatments can be a great complement to your treatment program. You can reduce your ADHD symptoms by focusing on sleep eating well and meditating frequently.
5. Exercise
Many people with ADHD struggle to keep their brains and bodies active. This is a large factor in their impulsive and hyperactive behavior. You can assist your brain in refocusing by increasing your physical activity. You might also observe that it decreases your symptoms and increases your ability to control your mood and behavior.
Additionally, physical activity has been proven to increase dopamine levels in the brain, which is an ingredient that can improve concentration and attention. It can also help reduce anxiety and depression, which are often linked to 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 do at minimum 30 minutes of moderate intensity exercise each day, four or five days per week. You can do swimming, dancing, or running. But it is important to select an activity you are interested in and be committed to. Picking an activity you enjoy can inspire you to do it, especially when you are part of an environment with a group of people.
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 individuals. add adult treatment aid in improve self-control, which is often the biggest issue for children and teens with ADHD.
You can use these natural treatments as a complement to or in place of medications prescribed by your physician. But, it is important to consult with your physician prior to making major lifestyle changes or trying new products. They can offer more information on the best treatments for you.