ADHD Natural Treatment For Children and Adults With ADHD
ADHD is not only treated with medication. The condition can be treated through behavior therapy, dietary modifications and supplements.
Stimulants aid in improving concentration and focus by boosting the brain chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine. If stimulants cause undesirable side effects, non-stimulants can be used.
1. Healthy eating
Many people believe that diet can be a significant factor in ADHD symptoms. Research has proven that certain foods can make children with ADHD become more hyperactive, while other foods help or reduce symptoms. This is why a lot of parents attempt to treat their children's ADHD by eating a healthy diet.
Some ADHD experts advise avoiding a long list of chemicals and foods that are commonly found in processed foods. Instead, they suggest eating a healthy diet of whole foods, with a preference for non-processed or minimally processed food such as vegetables, fruits whole grains, healthy fats, and lean proteins. This type of diet can help to balance blood sugar levels and keep your mood stable.
Other ADHD natural treatments include herbal supplements and nutritional supplements. For example, iron deficiency is often found in children suffering from ADHD, and supplementation can help 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. These diets are based on a belief that certain food items, like artificial sweeteners or preservatives can trigger hyperactivity. In addition, some people may be sensitive to caffeine, which is present in a variety of coffee drinks, sodas and energy drinks.
A test for sensitivity or food allergies is another option. This can be done in an office or at home. Once the food allergies or sensitivities are known then the person can begin an elimination diet to find problematic foods. A registered dietitian can help make the process easier and ensure that the child receives 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 for a long time.
2. Avoiding allergies and sensitivities
Many kids and adults with ADHD have food sensitivities and allergies. Eliminating these food items can help reduce ADHD symptoms. Food dyes, MSG, a preservative found in processed foods, and artificial sweeteners are all foods to stay clear of. The nitrites found in canned foods and lunchmeat can be harmful too, as they interfere with the hormones that regulate the central nervous system. This can increase blood pressure, heart rate and breathing problems.
Tests for food allergies are crucial to determine which foods trigger ADHD symptoms. Once the ingredient or food that is responsible for 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 remove a food or food ingredient from the diet. Then, it is reintroduced to see how the symptoms are affected. This method of identifying food allergies can be a challenge and should always be done under the supervision of a doctor or registered dietitian.
In addition to avoiding food items that are known to cause problems, children suffering from ADHD should try to consume regular meals, even if they don't feel hungry. This will help stabilize their blood sugar levels and lessen the effects of stimulants on the brain.
It has been proven that herbal supplements can increase focus and attention in people with ADHD. These supplements can be used as a stand-alone or in conjunction with other natural products and ADHD medication. Pycnogenol (French maritime pine bark extract) and ginkgo biloba have been shown to boost dopamine levels which can reduce hyperactivity. In addition, passionflower extract has been proven to be comparable to methylphenidate in improving ADHD symptoms.
3. Improve Your Sleep
Sleeping well is the most effective natural cure for ADHD for both adults and children. Insufficient sleep can exacerbate the mood and attention problems which is why it is crucial to get the proper amount of sleep every night.
Speak to your doctor If you're having trouble falling asleep or staying asleep. There are a variety of reasons why you might be having trouble sleeping, such as sleep disorders or medications that hinder your body's ability to relax.
Additionally, sleep issues can occur when you take stimulant medication for ADHD. Certain studies suggest that stimulant medications such as Ritalin and Adderall may affect your sleep. You can overcome sleep issues by taking your medication at the same time each day, avoiding caffeine and napping throughout the day. Also, request four-hour doses instead of extended release medication.
Sleep deprivation can make it harder to focus and concentrate, so if you're struggling, try to get the recommended 10-11 hours each night for teens and children. It is also helpful to establish a routine for bedtime and ensure your bedroom is dark and quiet.
It's also essential to limit your consumption of sugar and avoid eating foods that can trigger symptoms, like fast or processed foods. A balanced diet can improve your symptoms and provide more energy.
Herbal supplements can help especially if you're vitamin deficient. Melatonin has been found to help treat sleeplessness caused by ADHD and insomnia, while herbal remedies like Korean red ginseng (Pycnogenol) and ginkgo and French maritime pine bark extract can reduce ADHD symptoms. (14) However, more research is needed and you should check with your doctor before making any herbal or supplement treatments.
4. Meditation
Just like a muscle the brain requires exercise in order to stay healthy. Meditation can help build the focus area of the brain. It helps people observe their thoughts and feelings and trains them to return their wandering thoughts to the present moment.
Meditation also aids in balancing the brain's neurotransmitter levels, which 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 key to making meditation successful is the consistency. Similar to exercise, it's essential to establish a plan and stick to it. A meditation partner who can hold you accountable is also beneficial. This will make it easier to keep up with the daily routine. You can also test various meditation techniques until you discover the one that is effective for you.
Aside from meditation, there are many herbs that can help improve cognitive function. The herbs can be consumed as food or in capsule form. Some of the most well-known herbs used to treat ADHD include Ashwagandha, Gingko Biloba, and Bacopa monnieri.
These natural remedies can aid you in managing your ADHD symptoms effectively without taking medication. It is important to consult with your doctor prior to trying any new supplements or techniques. These natural treatments are a great addition to therapy and medication for ADHD. By putting sleep first, eating clean, and getting regular meditation sessions you'll be on the way to reducing your ADHD symptoms naturally.
5. Exercise
Many people with ADHD struggle to keep their bodies and brains active. This is what contributes to their hyperactive and impulsive behavior. You can help your brain refocus by increasing your physical activity. You may also notice that it helps reduce your symptoms and enhances your ability to control your emotions and behaviors.
Exercise has also been proven to boost the levels of dopamine in your brain, a chemical which enhances attention and focus. It can also help reduce depression and anxiety that are often related to ADHD. In fact, research has found that exercise is more effective than medication at reducing anxiety and depression in adults with ADHD.
Try to do at least 30 minutes of moderate intensity exercise each day, or four or five days per week. You can try swimming, dancing or running. But it is important to select an activity you are interested undiagnosed adhd in adults treatment in and be committed to. You can be motivated to exercise when you select an activity that you like, particularly when it is part of an group.
Yoga and meditation are two other natural therapies that can help ADHD. Both meditation and yoga have been proven to boost mood and increase dopamine levels in healthy people. They can also improve self-control, which is a problem for many teens and children with ADHD.
You can utilize these natural remedies as a complement to or in lieu of medicines prescribed by your doctor. Talk to your doctor prior to making any lifestyle changes or trying new products. They can offer more information about the best treatments for you.