Holistic Treatment For ADHD
Posted: Wednesday, February 23, 2011
by Dr. Emily Kensington
As a doctor who treats Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, and as the mother of a son with ADHD, I have spent a lot of time researching holistic treatment for ADHD. Many ADHD sufferers and parents of children with ADHD are increasingly investigating natural remedies that are effective and do not have the side effects that are associated with commonly prescribed ADHD medications such as Ritalin and its derivatives.
NUTRITIONAL SUPPLEMENTS
- Vitamin B-6 boosts the central nervous system. Vitamin B6 is known as an anti-stress vitamin because it is believed to enhance the activity of the immune system and improve the body's ability to manage tension, stress, and anxiety. In general, it is essential for nervous system functioning and brain development.
- Iron. A 2004 French research study indicated that iron deficiency may contribute to ADHD in children, and that children with ADHD who also have iron deficiencies exhibit more severe ADHD symptoms. The children with the most severe iron deficiencies were also the most inattentive, impulsive, and hyperactive. This led the researchers to conclude that low iron stores may explain as much as 30% of ADHD severity. In addition, past research has linked iron deficiency in infancy to slower brain development and poorer school performance later in childhood. Animal studies have linked iron deficiency to restlessness.
- Magnesium deficiency has been implicated in ADHD. Individuals with ADHD have lower than normal levels of magnesium inside their blood cells than do individuals without the disorder. Low magnesium levels can also lead to irritability, hyperactivity, inattention, aggressive behavior, sleep disturbances, and reduced blood flow to the brain, which are all common phenomena frequently seen in brain scans of ADHD individuals.
- Zinc deficiency is associated with severity of ADHD symptoms. It is a natural booster of neurochemicals and neurotransmitters. Also, Zinc may be more effective in treating the hyperactive and impulsive aspects of the disorder rather than symptoms of inattention, but it is still a standout among natural remedies for ADD.
- DMG or Di-Methyl Glycine is used to improve speech and behavior in those suffering from ADHD. They are also used to reduce stress and improve oxygenation of the blood.
- GABA is a neurotransmitter and amino acide, and GABA pathways in the brain appear to play a role in certain cognitive disorders like ADHD. GABA is a natural calming agent and helps fight anxiety.
- DMAE or Dimethylaminoethanol is an organic compound and brain booster. It enhances mood and alertness. What is good for the brain is generally beneficial in treating ADHD.
- Fish oil is rich in essential fatty acids (EFA's), particularly Omega-3 and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). Research studies have shown that fish oil improves ADHD symptoms such as inattention, hyperactivity, oppositional and defiant behavior, and conduct disorders. Some researchers suggest that children with ADHD may have an Omega-3 deficiency. Compared with results of studies testing popular and mainstream ADHD medications such as Ritalin and Concerta, they found that fish oil was more effective. For vegetarians or those who do not like fish flaxseed oil can be used a substitute.
- Chamomile is an herb that has been used for thousands of years. It is noted for its soothing and calming properties and is safe for children. In addition, it tastes good and can be ingested in multiple ways. It is easily digestible in tea or capsule form.
To learn more about holistic treatment for ADHD, visit http://www.add-treatment.com.
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