Let thy food be thy medicine and thy medicine be thy food -Hippocrates

In the US, other than prescribed medications, there are no other federally-approved treatments for ADD/ADHD. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is still supporting drug therapy as the treatment for this disorder. Findings of many studies point to availability of “natural” treatments; therefore, a rising number of health professionals are proposing behavioral and dietary interventions to supplement.

What can be said about prescription medication is that it is still new to the practice of medicine but plant extracts and other holistic remedies have existed before our time. Modern medicine possesses the wondrous capability to alter natural substances to form a chemical derivative that has absolutely nothing to do with the original material in its final form.

It is, however, very interesting that it was the advent of chemically-based foods, sweeteners, additives, and, yes, medications that signaled the advent of the ADD/ADHD “epidemic”.

Are there any possible connections?

ADD/ADHD is a result of the appearance of chemical substance which has the ability to produce biochemical reactions within the body. It is then capable of altering the body’s functioning to elicit unnatural symptoms. All this of course is the result of changes in the environment change the natural bodily function.

The rise in cases of ADD/ADHD have risen in concurrence with the widespread usage of chemical additives, preservatives, and substances. This further testifies that natural malfunction of the human body is cannot the major cause of ADD/ADHD most cases. The toxin environment created by unnatural substances is what causes failure in for the body to function properly.

As the use of chemicals has increased, so have the rates of ADD/ADHD diagnoses.

The reality is that some individuals are more sensitive to extraneous toxins than others. Just as some people are more prone to reacting to allergens whereas others are not affected by them at all, some people are simply biologically programmed to have a more severe reaction to toxins than others.

The body of a highly sensitive individuals can react in a way such as developing symptoms like fidgeting, distractibility, impulsivity, hyperactivity, forgetfulness, and behavioral problems when placed in a toxin environment but if these individuals are removed form the environment then the symptom can be reduced or even disappear completely.

The issue of ADD/ADHD treatment is that many people knows that the toxin effecting sufferer of ADD/ADHD must be removed from them and this goes for removing the individuals from the toxic environment too but the vast number of us are still unclear about how to go about doing that. With the many non-medication method available today, prescribed medication should be the last choice in anyone seeking out ways to deal with this disorder.

These are the issues that needs to be addressed and have proven to help control a great number of ADD/ADHD cases:

- the nutritional needs of the individual

- any existing behavioral issues

- toxins present within the individual’s environment

Not many have found the need for medications, even if it is during emergencies.

Many researchers suspect, and are now investigating, the correlation between food allergies and behavioral problems. These researchers have gone so far as to suggest that more than 60% of individuals suspected of having ADD/ADHD might be “cured” by eliminating such toxins as sugar, artificial colors and preservatives, soy, milk, chocolate, wheat, some citrus fruits, and eggs from their diets.

Elimination diet is one of the most recommended method of stabilizing ADD/ADHD like behavior. Here is a short guide for implementing elimination diet.

1. Begin by eliminating foods, or food groups, that might be responsible for the symptoms. If dairy products are suspected, eliminate all dairy products. Should the symptoms improve, dairy can be added back into the diet, one food at a time. When and if symptoms return, the food, or foods, that were most recently introduced are the probable culprits.

2. You can start eliminating food such as diary, wheat products, sugar, eggs, nuts, soy products, corn, and citrus fruits and juices because they are usually the type that are responsible for these symptoms.

3. Try to carry out food elimination for two weeks and during that time, breathing, and general health should be closely monitored.

4. Foods should then be introduced one at a time and for the period of three days minimum. Introducing food should be done at three days interval until a reaction appears.

5.Make sure to read food labels! Some products contain the offending foods as an ingredient and will produce a reaction.

Food diary is another method that can be used to detect food allergies. This method is done by recording all foods, beverages, snacks, candies, etc. that are consumed. This is also extended to inoffensive substances as gum, medications (even over the counter meds), and candies. Don’t forget to record down breathing, and general health in the diary as well as sleeping patterns, activity levels, and attitude. Patterns should be detectable according to what was ingested at the end of the month.

Elimination diets and food diaries are now being used to uncover toxins that may be responsible for such conditions as Autism, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, general food allergies, Fibromyalgia, inflammatory bowel disease, and even depression!



By: Jimmy Brownen

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The full form of ADHD is Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. It is a psychological disorder which is related to the hypersensitive psychological state of mind.

The most common symptoms in an infant are extreme restlessness, crying, they also show a very poor sleep patterns. The older children have poor concentration they posses week memory, impulsiveness they are in a hurry to do everything, generally lacks self esteem.

Weak short term memory and they suffer from some abnormal sleep and appetite problems. There are also different degrees of severity. To overcome this disease usually the relaxant drugs are provided to the children. There are many drugs available in the market for this disorder which is prescribed by the psychologists.

What are the medications available against this disorder?

There are mainly two types of treatment which is generally used to cure the ADHD types of treatment for ADHD; pharmacological and non-pharmacological. It is been found out in various studies that 70% to 80% children are benefited by the stimulant drugs.

In the ADHD normally the psycho stimulants drugs are used; they are prescribed for both children and adults with severe ADHD but the dose of the psycho stimulants is different. The psycho stimulant drugs which are generally used are Ritalin. Concereta some non-stimulant drugs are also used with these stimulant drugs such as Starterra as well as amphetamines, such as Dexedrine and Adderall.

Your doctor can advise a daily dosage which can be short or long acting. After this initial dosage your doctor may feel a need to increase or reduce the dosage for the drug to give you the desired effect.

The side effects which generally occur due to this medication:

Some adverse effects have been seen in the children after these medications. The most common side effect of these medications is change in the appetite, sleeplessness and anxiousness.

The younger children may loose some weight from these therapies Other side effects of these psycho stimulants drugs includes irritability, stomach pain, hair loss, headache, depression, hallucinations, and lack of spontaneity.

What are the drugs prescribed by psychologist for this disorder:

There are mainly two types of treatment which is generally used to cure the ADHD types of treatment for ADHD; pharmacological and non-pharmacological. In the ADHD normally the psycho stimulants drugs are used; they are prescribed for both children and adults with severe ADHD but the dose of the psycho stimulants is different.

These drugs have been intensively studied and used by the psychologists but there are serious concerns with long-term use of these drugs. The psycho stimulant drugs which are generally used are Ritalin.

Concereta some non-stimulant drugs are also used with these stimulant drugs such as Starterra as well as amphetamines, such as Dexedrine and Adderall. Your doctor can advise a daily dosage which can be short or long acting. After this initial dosage your doctor may feel a need to increase or reduce the dosage for the drug to give you the desired effect.

The possible side effects of the ADHD drugs

All stimulants have a number of side effects: The most common side effect of these therapies maybe the change in the appetite, sleeplessness and anxiousness. The younger children may loose some weight from these therapies Other side effects of these psycho stimulants drugs includes irritability, stomach pain, hair loss, headache, depression, hallucinations, , and lack of spontaneity.



By: Paul Hata

About the Author:

Most doctors, when they encounter a case of ADHD, turn to stimulant or anti-depressant drugs to counteract most of the disorders symptoms. However, in taking these drugs the effects are short lived and the medication needs to be constant. There is also the possibility of various side effects to contend with too. Because of this, it is only natural that parents try to find alternatives. Most parents are attracted by natural alternatives ADHD children can take as opposed to prescribed drugs mainly because they are considered to have less side effects. Here are some natural alternatives for ADHD that have shown promise:

1) Caffeine - Caffeine is a stimulant, just like the prescription drugs are. This means that caffeine perks up a person who is feeling a bit drowsy. It is ironic that stimulants seem to have a reverse effect on people with ADHD. People who have used caffeine as a natural alternative to ADHD report being able to calm down and think clearly and yet have no trouble with hyperactivity.

Caffeine is found in coffee, tea, soda and some chewing gums. However, with everything moderation is key. Children should be okay to have 2.5mg of caffeine for every kilo they weigh a day. Just like stimulant drugs, this treatment is not for everyone and be aware of the sugars and other ingredients in soda that can have detrimental effects on health.

2) DMAE - This is a compound that occurs naturally in the body and in some fish. Making use of DMAE as a natural alternative or complement to ADHD prescription medicines has been shown to be effective. Studies carried out in the 1970’s looking at the effects of DMAE on people with ADHD showed results that where comparable to taking Ritalin. You will find DMAE supplements available, however there is a risk of some side effects, notably headaches, insomnia, depression, irritability and restlessness. So it pays to be careful with dosages.

3) Essential Fatty Acids - These are also found in fish and some plants. Essential fatty acids have been linked with improved mental capability and even cardiac health. Essential fatty acids can be obtained by eating deep-sea fish regularly. However, you should be careful because deep-sea fish can also have high levels of mercury in their meat. An option you can consider is cod liver oil and other fish oil supplements, although be sure the source of the fish is stated and that its mercury free. Fish oils have long been marketed as a great supplement for improving focus before people thought of using it as a natural alternative to ADHD medication.

4) B vitamins - Research shows that treatment with the B-group vitamins, especially Vitamin B6 & B12, helps a child with ADHD remain focused. There are a lot of food sources of this vitamin. However, you should keep in mind that you may not get enough of these vitamins from food alone and so taking a B-complex supplement can help.

For more tips and advice on choosing natural alternative ADHD treatments sign up for the free newsletter below

The natural alternative ADHD sufferers can make can make a difference to ADHD behaviors. However, it may take some experimentation to find the ones that are most suitable. Discussing these options with your doctor is essential before starting on any new regime and never stop taking prescription medication without first seeking medical approval.



By: Sue Perkins

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drcandelwood asked:

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http://www.FixAdd.com California help with ADD ADHD Treatments for ADD ADHD Discover the true cause of ADD ADHD how to fix it. California ADD ADHD Help. Help in California with ADD ADHD Alternatives.

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An assistant director of LearningRx in Raleigh NC tells stories of how the programs used have changed students lives. Find out more at www.learningrx.com/raleigh.

ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) is a common psychological disorder that often becomes perceptible once a child starts preschool. Millions of children are diagnosed with ADHD each year, many of them before the age of six. The most prevalent form of treatment is typically prescription medication, which may help to reduce the symptoms of ADHD so the child can function normally in a school setting. Unfortunately, drug medications are not without side effects and can be addictive. For these reasons, many parents seek treatment for ADHD through behavior therapy.

Behavioral therapy, also known as behavior management, is shown to have positive results on ADHD children. The goal of behavior therapy in ADHD children is to increase the desired behaviors. This is typically achieved through using positive reinforcements when the child acts appropriately. The first step of therapy is typically to improve the relationship between the child and the parents. This is coupled with providing negative consequences and positive reinforcements to help the child increase his or her interest in pleasing the parents.

Part of the success of behavior therapy for ADHD children lies in the active interest and support of the child’s parents. Parents need to take an active role in making the therapy work for their child. This includes making and following a game plan to which both parents need to use to help guide the child to success. Parents should discuss the ongoing therapy with the doctor to ensure that the program is working for their child.

One of the most important factors in using behavioral therapy is to identify the problem early and start treatment as soon as possible. Even very young ADHD children will benefit from some form of behavioral therapy. One problem has always been early detection of ADHD in children. In the past small children that had disciplinary problems may have been expelled and told to wait until they matured slightly to enter pre-school.

Recent studies have found that when behavior therapy is started very young it can be quite successful as an alternative treatment for ADHD. In a 5-year study conducted by researchers at Lehigh University, Pennsylvania, 135 preschoolers with ADHD were treated with a variety of behavior-only therapies. After a year, researchers found that the children’s behavior and learning had improved by about 30 percent. The most effective techniques are based on consistency in rules and routine when dealing with good and bad behaviors.

In many cases, ADHD children can be treated successfully without the use of medications or through the use of reduced medication coupled with behavior therapy. ADHD children respond well the younger they are when they are diagnosed and treated. If you have concerns about whether or not your child is exhibiting symptoms of ADHD you should consult with a doctor. A qualified specialist can perform simple tests to determine if the child has ADHD and if so the severity of the condition.



By: Alvin Toh

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BryGibson asked:

Changes in a child’s learning skills at LearningRx Story Severna Park MD. Able to ignore other kids around him!! More details at www.learningrx.com/severna-park

jennifer c asked:


Okay, this isn’t a question, but more of an answer, but any1 with experience is highly encouraged 2 give advice. My son has adhd and it was very difficult 4 him in the classroom, as well as the teachers and other children. When he was younger, the teachers would make up special rewards 4 him. I thought this would make the other kids mad, but, because they were as aggrivated as the teacher with his disruption, they actually encouraged it. He was allowed so many times 2 speak up without raising his hand. After he did it once, the teacher would move his marker & show he had 4 times left and so on. This made him more aware of his behavior. Same thing with getting out of his seat. After his marks were moved & he repeated the behavior, he got write-offs 2 do at home. I think it was like 10 per extramark, may have been less. Anyone who knows these children know that they **** homework. I was a supportive parent, but if you have 1 that isn’t, they can do these at freetime.
Medications aren’t given until they reach kindergarden, and even with medications there are still behavior problems. As a matter of fact, concerta was the best medication that was prescribed to my son and even that didn’t help a whole lot.

Parents with ADHD children know all about the difficulty of trying to raise their child properly and having to cope with the extreme behavioral problems that come with the disorder. In response to this new modern epidemic mainstream medical companies have of course made products that can help solve the child’s problem (and their parent’s frustration!) by the use of drugs such as Ritalin and Adderall. To compliment this many also send their children to behavioral therapy which is expensive and time consuming; a perfect combination for an industry trying to make money out of a serious problem. Recently however studies have shown that ADHD drugs do not cure the problem but simply put off the problem without curing it. Add to this that the studies show the drugs may stunt growth and may also cause long term problems that have not been totally confirmed and we can see drugs may not be the answer. So what alternative attention deficit disorder treatments are there and can there be a totally natural adhd treatment so that parents can be assured of a healthy and happy child, and do they work? Let’s look at a few examples:

Diet

One approach to changing a child’s behavior that has become popular is to control, their diet to cut out certain foods and additives that promote hyperactive behavior and increase or decrease nutrients that help with focusing and calmness. This approach is often very healthy as the diets are usually quite good if not exciting. The biggest problem usually lies in sugar and caffeine but there are also many other surprising foods that may make more of an impact than you think. The downsides are that it is hard to get an ADHD kid to eat all the things you prepare as they are used to a different more exiting diet. If you can get them to stick to the changes there are many children who may benefit from this but not everyone has had immediate success with just this approach depending on the severity of their disorder.

Behavior modification programs

This is a system of changing the way a child acts by rewarding them for good behavior and not giving in and giving them what they want for bad behavior. While most parents do this to a degree anyway many have taken this to a new level by making it into a game by scoring the child and promoting active tasks. While this may not eliminate ADHD it can modify some more antisocial and aggressive behaviors if you can channel that energy into useful things. Not all children take to this however and it can end up being a battle to get them to participate but still a large number of people have managed to turn the whirlwind energy of the child into a force for good!

Biofeedback

This is a newer treatment that revolves around the brainwave patterns that an ADHD sufferer experiences. By measuring brainwaves through a machine it is possible to adjust these patterns by rewarding the right brainwaves via a computer game or some other learning tool, when the person does the right thing mentally they are rewarded and the brain responds by adjusting the way it behaves. This is less invasive than it sounds as sensors are placed on the scalp to measure the brainwaves but no other equipment is actually touching the child. This requires some significant resources however and is not readily available.

Auditory Integration Training

There is evidence to support then notion that some learning disabilities ADHD included are a result of a problem with a child’s hearing. Problems like this can cause a child to “tune out” or cover their ears or become aggressive when particular sounds or frequencies are heard. The treatment that goes with this focuses on using sounds that stimulate the possible problem areas of the inner ear and the way it interacts with the brain. By modulating and adjusting these frequencies it is possible to gain long term benefit to their hearing and also short term increases to attention span and social behaviors.

As we can see there are many alternative attention deficit disorder treatments that do not require mind altering drugs but work holistically and naturally. Some even focus on simply redirecting the ADHD sufferers energy into beneficial things implying that it can be a blessing not a curse if refocused. In any event there are options for natural ADHD remedies that have had proven success!



By: Hengster

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