ADHD is labeled as a learning disability. It is a learning disability resulting in failure to develop information correctly. There are ten essential Neurological processes that are crucial to learning. Information gets lost in the process when one or more are not functioning properly. Stimulant medications are commonly used to treat children with ADHD. The US is top on the list of prescribing stimulant medications. The side effects of the medicine vary from sleep problems, mood swings, loss of appetite, heart problems and suicidal thoughts and actions. Medication many times is only a short- term solution resulting in a mask for symptoms. They may not be a long-term solution.
Dietary components should be examined and acknowledge by doctors. Approaching this problem holistically can reduce the amount of medication given to children. ADHD is not a factor of bad behavior or parenting and cannot be controlled by stringent disciplinary methods. Parent’s need help and support from their medical professionals.
Take into consideration dietary factors. In the US junk foods and fast foods are commonly a part of a child’s diet. Our busy life styles have created eating meals on-the-go. Our children’s diets are high in carbohydrates, lacking in protein and healthy fat and seriously lacking in vegetables. It has been proven that a diet high in carbohydrates and low in protein will make a person vulnerable to ADHA and make behavior changes. Children should not snack all day. Many snack foods are processed, high in refined carbohydrates, sugar, gluten, dairy, synthetic flavors and synthetic colors. Kids menus items that are designed with mac-n-cheese, chicken fingers and peanut butter and jelly do not encourage healthy brain development.
Doctors need to address nutrient deficiencies and food sensitivities when diagnosing and treating ADHD. Parents need to be aware of the affects that food additives do to the brain. A high carbohydrate and high sugar diet creates a child that is impulsive. Eating gluten, dairy and sugar can decrease the blood flow to the brain causing inflammation. Reduce impulsive activity by eating more protein and good-fats stabilizing blood sugar. High synthetic colors found in processed foods can worsen irritability, hyperactivity and cause sleep disturbance. It should not be used as a quick fix. In our society, a quick fix approach is used commonly for many issues in our everyday lives. Specifically, these food colors and preservatives should be avoided at all cost.
Sodium benzoate- found in carbonate beverages, salad dressings and fruit juice products.
FD+C Yellow No.6- Found in bread crumbs, cereal, candy, icing and soft drinks
D+C Yellow No. 10- found in juices, sorbets, smoked haddock
FD+C Yellow No 5- Found in pickles, cereal, granola bars and yogurt
FD+C No. 40- Found in soft drinks, children’s medications, gelatin desserts and ice cream
Avoid BHT BHA used in potato chips chewing gum, dry cake mixes, cereal, butter and instant mashed potatoes
Milk and eggs
Chocolate
Outside activity is essential for all children. Getting back to nature is beneficial. Let them get their hands and feet in the dirt.
Our children need to be looked at as a whole being. Their mind body and spirit taken into consideration. They should never be tagged with their symptoms. More than 50% of children that have a change of diet showed fewer behavioral problems.
Restrict artificial and chemical food additives, chocolate, MSG, preservatives and caffeine. Have your child tested for food allergies and intolerances. There are nutritional supplements that alleviate symptoms of ADHD. Consult your Practitioner to decide what would be best for your child.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids- ADHD child might be deficient
Grape Seed Extract- May be helpful with ADHA
Liquid Vitamin B Complex- Relaxes the nervous system, helps mental function
Calcium Magnesium and Zinc- Calms the nervous system
Choline- Improves memory
DMAE- Helpful for adolescent boys prone to aggressive behavior
Pycnogenol- Reduces agitation.
Always check with your Practitioner for recommendation and dosage before administering any supplements to your child. Consult your Practitioner before starting an innovated treatment program.
Raising children is sometimes challenging. Every child is unique. Always consult your doctor before stopping any medication that has been prescribed. As busy parents, let’s not forget the needs of our children. At Sundance Holistic Wellness Center, Sherry is a Wellness Practitioner that can help you get started on the right path with nutrition coaching for the needs of your busy family. Education is offered for meal planning to feed your family in a Holistic Healthy way. Her goal is to empower you to create a family with inner peace, self-worth, happiness, health and success.