Diet

Avoid any foods with artificial sweeteners

• Aspartame, Acesulfame, Sucralose

Avoid any foods with artificial colors, especially Red #40

Avoid SUGARS

• Repeated studies have shown that severe ADHD symptoms correlated with the amount of sugar consumed

Hidden Food Allergies & Sensitivities can cause children to lose focus and become hyperactive. Screen for all potential food allergies before taking any prescription medications for ADHD.

-Both food allergies and ADHD are associated with sleep disturbances, which contribute to worsening of ADHD symptoms.

-Food allergy elimination and desensitization can be as effective as drug therapy in reducing ADHD symptoms.

Check for Nutritional Deficiencies

Zinc

-Regulates neurotransmitters involved in attention and concentration.

Iron

Iron deficiency can lead to impaired brain development, and deficiencies are more common amongst children with ADHD.

-Low iron levels correlate with severe ADHD and

Magnesium

Levels were shown to be low in the majority of children with ADHD.

-Regulates neurotransmitters

-Has an overall calming effect on the brain

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 Fatty Acids are critical components in brain and nerve cell function.

Several studies have shown that children with ADHD has lower tissue levels of EPA and DHA.

Supplementation improves many symptoms of ADHD, including impulsive-oppositional behavior which is not always addressed with other treatment options.

Heavy Metal Toxicity

Lead exposure is associated with a higher risk of ADHD

Lead can be transmitted from maternal blood, dust and soil.

→ High lead levels can be treated through detoxification programs, including chelation in more severe cases.

Other heavy metals such as mercury, cadmium and arsenic may also contribute to ADHD symptoms in children and adults.

Sources:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3847899/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/2909977

http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.2044-8260.1983.tb00575.x/pdf