ADHD Natural Treatment For Children and Adults With ADHD
While medication is the primary component of treatment for ADHD however, it's not the only option. The condition can be treated using behavioral therapy, diet modifications, and supplements.
Stimulants help improve focus and concentration by increasing the brain chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine. Non-stimulants may be used if stimulants cause unpleasant side effects.
1. Eating Clean
Many people believe that diet may play a major part in ADHD symptoms. Studies have shown that certain foods can cause ADHD children hyperactive, while other foods can reduce or improve symptoms. Many parents treat their children's ADHD with food.
Some ADHD experts recommend avoiding a long list of foods and chemicals that are commonly found in processed foods. They recommend a diet rich in whole foods, and preferably unprocessed or minimally processed, such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains. This type of diet helps to maintain a stable mood and regulate blood sugar.
Other ADHD natural remedies include nutritional supplements and herbs. Iron deficiency for instance is a common problem in ADHD children, and supplementation may alleviate symptoms. Ginkgo biloba and passionflower extract have been proven effective in treating ADHD symptoms.
Elimination diets could be beneficial for some adults and children with ADHD. These diets are based on the belief that certain food items, like artificial sweeteners or preservatives can cause hyperactivity. In addition, some people are sensitive to caffeine, which can be found in many sodas, coffee drinks, and energy drinks.
Another option is to have a food allergy or sensitivity test done. This can be done in a clinic or at the home. After food sensitivities or allergies have been identified, the person can start an elimination diet to identify foods that cause problems. A registered dietitian can facilitate the process and ensure that the child receives sufficient nutrition while avoiding problematic foods. This is an excellent alternative to medications for those who don't like them or don't want to take them on a long-term basis.
2. Avoiding Allergies and Sensitivities
Many kids and adults who suffer from ADHD suffer from food allergies and sensitivities. Eliminating these foods may help decrease ADHD symptoms. Some examples of foods that should be avoided include food colorings, MSG (a preservative used in processed food items) as well as artificial sweeteners. The nitrites found in canned foods and lunchmeat 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 ingredient or food that is responsible for the symptoms has been identified it can be eliminated from the diet. This allows your body to heal and return to normal function. A single-food diet is utilized to remove a food or food ingredient from the diet. It is then reintroduced to see how the symptoms are affected. This approach can be difficult to master and should only be utilized under the supervision of either a registered dietitian, or a doctor.
Children with ADHD should eat regularly even if it does not cause them to feel hungry. This will help stabilize their blood sugar levels and reduce the effect stimulants have on the brain.
It has been shown that certain herbal supplements can improve focus and concentration in those who suffer from ADHD. These supplements can be used 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 levels of dopamine, which calm hyperactivity. Passionflower extract is also comparable to methylphenidate as a treatment for ADHD symptoms.
3. Improve Your Sleep
Sleeping well is the most effective natural treatment for ADHD for both adults and children. Insufficient sleep can cause attention and mood issues, so it's important to ensure that you get the proper amount of sleep each night.
If you're having trouble falling asleep or remain asleep, speak to your doctor. There are many reasons why you might be experiencing difficulties sleeping, such as sleep disorders or medications that interfere with the body's ability to relax.
Sleep problems can also occur when you take stimulant medications for ADHD. Certain studies suggest that stimulant drugs such as Ritalin and Adderall can affect your sleep. You can combat sleep issues by taking your medication at the same time every day, not drinking caffeine, and naps throughout the day. Also, request four-hour-doses instead of extended release medications.
Sleep deprivation can cause difficulty in concentrating and focusing. If you're having trouble concentrating, consider getting the recommended 10-11 hour per night for children. It can also help to establish a routine for bedtime and ensure your bedroom is dark and silent.
It's also important to limit consumption of sugar and avoid eating foods that trigger symptoms, like processed or fast foods. A balanced diet can also improve your symptoms and provide you with more energy.
Herbal supplements and herbs may aid in reducing stress, especially if you are vitamin deficient. Melatonin has been proven to reduce sleeplessness due to ADHD as well as herbal remedies such as Korean red ginseng (Pycnogenol) Ginkgo, ginseng, and French maritime pine bark extract can help reduce ADHD symptoms. It is important to consult your doctor prior to taking any supplements or herbal remedies.
4.
The brain, just like muscles, must be trained to stay healthy. Meditation can help strengthen the focus area of the brain. It helps people observe their thoughts and emotions and helps them bring their wandering thoughts back to the present.
Meditation can also help to regulate brain neurotransmitter levels. This can reduce ADHD symptoms. This is vital since low levels of dopamine are often linked to the condition, and meditation has been proven to boost the production of dopamine in the brain.
Consistency is the key to successful meditation. Like exercising, it's crucial to establish a plan and stick to it. A meditation partner who will keep you accountable can also be beneficial. This can help you to stay on top of the daily routine. It's also an excellent idea to test different methods of meditation until you find one that is suitable for you.
Meditation isn't the only way to improve cognitive function. Herbal remedies can also be utilized. These herbs can either be eaten as food or in capsule form. Ashwagandha is among the most popular herbal remedies for ADHD.
These natural remedies can aid you in managing your ADHD symptoms without taking medication. It is important to talk with your doctor prior to trying any new techniques or supplements. These natural treatments are a great addition to treatment and medication for ADHD. You can reduce your ADHD symptoms by focusing on sleeping eating well, and meditating regularly.
5. Exercise
Many people suffering from ADHD struggle to keep their bodies and brains active. This is the reason for their impulsive and hyperactive behavior. By increasing your physical activity, it can aid your brain in refocusing. You might also notice that it decreases symptoms and enhances your ability to control your emotions and behaviours.
Exercise has also been proven to increase the dopamine levels in your brain, a chemical that improves focus and attention. It also helps reduce depression and anxiety, both of which are often associated with ADHD. Exercise is more effective at combating depression, anxiety and ADHD in adults than medication.
Try to complete at minimum 30 minutes of moderate intensity exercise a day, four or five days per week. You can try swimming, dancing or running. But adhd symptoms and treatment is essential to choose an activity that you enjoy and can be committed to. Selecting an activity that you enjoy can help you get motivated to complete it, particularly when you exercise in an environment with a group of people.
Another natural treatment that can help those suffering from ADHD is yoga and meditation. Both of these have been shown to increase dopamine levels and improve mood in healthy people. They also aid in self-control which is a challenge for many teens and children with ADHD.
These natural treatments can be used as a supplement to or in lieu of the medications prescribed by your physician. Consult your doctor before making any lifestyle changes or trying out new products. They can provide more information about the best treatments for you.