Ongoing For Children and Adults With ADHD
ADHD is not just treated with medication. The condition can be treated through behavioral therapy, diet modifications, and supplements.
Stimulants help improve concentration and focus by boosting brain chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine. Non-stimulants may be used if stimulants cause unpleasant adverse effects.
1. Clean eating
Many people believe that diet may play a major part in ADHD symptoms. Research has shown that certain foods make kids with ADHD become more hyperactive, while other foods can help reduce symptoms. This is why many parents attempt to treat their children's ADHD by eating a healthy diet.
Some ADHD experts recommend avoiding the list of chemicals and foods that are found in processed foods. They recommend a diet high in whole foods, preferably 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.
Herbs and nutritional supplements are effective natural ADHD treatment options. Iron deficiency for instance, is common in ADHD children and supplementation can help alleviate symptoms. treatment of adhd in adults and passionflower extracts have been shown to be effective in treating ADHD symptoms.
Some adults and children with ADHD might benefit from elimination diets. These diets are based on a belief that certain foods, such as artificial sweeteners or preservatives, can trigger hyperactivity. Certain 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. These tests can be performed at a clinic, or at the home. Once food allergies or sensitivities have been identified, a person can begin an elimination diet in order to identify problematic foods. A registered dietitian will make the process easier and ensure that the child is receiving sufficient nutrition while avoiding problematic foods. This is a great alternative to taking medication for those who are not comfortable with them or do not want to take them long-term.
2. Avoiding Allergies and Sensitivities
Many children and adults with ADHD suffer from food allergies and sensitivities. Eliminating these food items can help reduce ADHD symptoms. Food dyes, MSG, a preservative used in processed food items, and artificial sweeteners are all things to stay clear of. Nitrites found in the lunch meat and canned foods, can cause harm because they interfere with the hormones that regulate the central nervous system, which increases blood pressure and heart rate and causes breathing issues.
Tests for food allergies are crucial to determine which foods cause ADHD symptoms. Once the ingredient or food that triggers the symptoms is identified, it can be eliminated from the diet. This will allow your body to heal and return to its normal function. A single-food elimination diet is commonly employed, where an ingredient in food or a food is removed from the diet for a specified period of time. It is then reintroduced to determine how symptoms are affected. This method of identifying food allergies can be difficult and should always be done under the supervision of a doctor or registered dietitian.
Children with ADHD should eat a regular diet even if it does not cause them to feel hungry. This will help to stabilize their blood sugar levels as well as reduce the effects that stimulants have on the brain.
Certain herbal supplements have been proven to increase focus and attention for those suffering from ADHD. These supplements can be used alone or in combination with other natural products and ADHD medications. Pycnogenol (French maritime pine bark extract) and Ginkgo biloba have been proven to boost dopamine levels which can reduce hyperactivity. Additionally, the extract of passionflower has been proven to be similar to methylphenidate when it comes to improving ADHD symptoms.
3. Get Better Sleep
A good night's sleep is one of the most important adhd natural remedies for adults and children suffering from ADHD. Insufficient sleep can cause mood and attention issues, so it's important to prioritize getting the right amount of sleep every night.
If you're struggling to fall asleep or stay asleep, speak to your doctor. There are a variety of reasons why you might be experiencing trouble, including sleep disturbances or medications that hinder your body's ability to relax.
Sleep problems can also arise when you take stimulant drugs for ADHD. Certain studies suggest that stimulant drugs such as Ritalin and Adderall may affect your sleep. You can combat these sleep issues by taking your medicine at the same time every day by avoiding caffeine and napping, and requesting four-hour doses instead of extended release medications.
Lack of sleep can make concentrating and focusing difficult. If you're struggling, try to get the recommended 10-11 hours of sleep per night for your child. Creating a regular bedtime routine and ensuring your bedroom is dark and quiet can aid as well.
You should also reduce your sugar intake and avoid foods that can trigger symptoms such as fast or processed food. A balanced diet can also improve your symptoms and give you more energy.
Herbal supplements and herbal remedies can also help, especially when you're deficient in vitamins. Melatonin has been proven to help treat sleeplessness caused by ADHD, while herbal medicines like Korean red Ginseng (Pycnogenol) Ginkgo, ginseng, and French maritime pine bark extract can reduce ADHD symptoms. It is essential to talk with your doctor before taking any supplement or herbal treatment.
4. Meditation
Similar to a muscle the brain needs to be exercised in order to stay healthy. Meditation can help build the focus region of the brain. It teaches people to observe their thoughts and emotions and helps them return their wandering thoughts to the present moment.
Meditation can also aid in balancing brain neurotransmitter levels. This can reduce ADHD symptoms. Meditation has been shown to boost brain dopamine levels which is crucial since low dopamine levels can be related to ADHD.
Consistency is the key to successful meditation. Similar to 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. You can also test various methods of meditation until you find the one that works for you.
Meditation isn't the only way to improve cognitive function. Herbal remedies can also be used. The herbs can be consumed as food or in capsule form. Ashwagandha is one of the most well-known herbal remedies for ADHD.
Integrating these natural remedies into your routine could be a great method to control your ADHD symptoms without the need for medication. However, it is essential to talk to your doctor before attempting any new methods or supplements. Therapy and medication are the best ways to treat ADHD however, these natural methods can be an excellent complement to your treatment plan. If you make sleep a priority and eating a healthy diet, as well as having regular meditation sessions you'll be on your way to managing your ADHD symptoms naturally.
5. Exercise
Many people suffering from ADHD struggle to keep their brains and body active. This is a huge component of the reason for their hyperactive and impulsive behavior. By increasing your physical activity, you will assist your brain to focus. It is also possible that it helps decrease symptoms and enhances your ability to regulate your mood and behavior.
Exercise has also been shown to boost the levels of dopamine in your brain, a chemical which enhances attention and focus. It can also reduce anxiety and depression that are often related to ADHD. In fact, studies have found that exercise is more effective than medication in reducing depression and anxiety for adults suffering from ADHD.
Try to do at minimum 30 minutes of moderate intensity workout a day, four or five days per week. You can do swimming, dancing, or running. It is crucial to pick an activity you are interested in and be committed to. Selecting an activity that you enjoy will help you stay motivated to keep going, particularly if you work out in a social group.
Meditation and yoga are two other treatments that are natural that can help ADHD. Both yoga and meditation have been shown to boost mood and increase dopamine levels in healthy people. They can also help to improve self-control, which is often a core challenge for kids and teens suffering from ADHD.
You can use these natural treatments as a supplement or as a substitute for medications prescribed by your doctor. Consult your doctor before making any lifestyle changes or trying new products. They can provide more information on the best treatment options for you.