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

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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.

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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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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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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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If you are parent of an ADHD child or you have ADHD yourself it is likely that you have already tried a number of ADHD therapies. Medications may have been your first option and although these tend to work, the benefits are short lived and there are number of controversies surrounding them in relation to side effects. There are other alternative solutions to ADHD such as biofeedback, sensory integrative therapy, behavioral therapy, individual therapy, herbal remedies and nutritional intervention. The latter advocates that with the proper consumption of supplements and vitamins, ADHD symptoms can be improved.

All of these methods are effective and while they may be used as stand alone treatments, many health professionals believe that combining the different modes of treatment simultaneously create far better results than using only medications or behavioral therapy or any one of the others.

One treatment that is gaining in popularity is nutritional intervention through the adoption of a diet and vitamin supplements that supplies all the essential nutrients required for optimal brain functioning.

Researches agree that ensuring the recommended daily intake of vitamins is reached could help both in the general health of an ADHD patient and in moderating some symptoms of ADHD. While there are plenty of vitamins available in food, we don’t always get enough. This can be due to making the wrong food choices and relying on fast or processed foods or only having a limited diet with little fresh fruits and vegetables.

The theory behind vitamin treatment is that replenishing or supplying vitamins that are deficient in the body could help improve the symptoms of ADHD.

Among the handful vitamins that are thought to alleviate the symptoms of ADHD are those that promote neurochemical development in the brain that control behavior. These neurochemicals are serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine.

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Vitamin B6 for example is among the vitamins that help the brain develop. It is vital to ensure the nervous system functions correctly and controls excitable behavior. Therefore a deficiency in B6 may lead to hyperactive behavior. In a clinical study researchers took 52 hyperexcitable children and gave them vitamin B6, along with magnesium for 3 - 24 weeks. The results showed a reduction of excitable behavior in all the children after 1 - 6 months treatment.

Sticking with the B vitamins, methyl-B12 (a form of vitamin B 12) has shown to improve attention and focus.

Moving onto supplements, magnesium is a mineral that some children with ADHD lack. Magnesium deficiencies can be accompanied by light or restless sleep and can lead to hyperactivity. Magnesium acts as a relaxant for nerve impulses as well as muscle contractions. It also encourages a reduction in hyperactivity and could induce deeper sleep.

Zinc is another mineral where a number of children with ADHD have a deficiency. According to a study carried out in 1996 ADHD children’s level of zinc are 2/3 the level of children without ADHD. Zinc is essential for memory and the ability to think clearly. Supplementing with zinc has also shown to improve IQ.

Although a ‘cure’ for ADHD does not exist, there are many anecdotal reports of children being able to stop or reduce medication after following a program of receiving proper nutrition, which includes vitamins and minerals along with diet modifications and behavioral therapy. Introducing supplement and vitamins ADHD treatment should be safe to do alongside medications, however, it is best to speak to your doctor to ensure there will be no adverse reactions.



By: Sue Perkins

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Many natural treatments for AHDH are now available. This does not necessarily mean that they will all work for everyone, but they are available. Simple and common sense treatments will work far better than any fad diet claiming to cure ADD.

First of all, diet is extremely important to all of us; however, it is particularly important to individuals suffering from ADHD. Nutrition can have a powerful effect on your mindset, emotions and how you behave. This, of course, can be negative or positive. The right diet can actually decrease the amount of medication you need. The following are four elements are important in an ADD friendly diet: lots of water, high protein intake, moderate carbohydrate intake and a low to moderate fat intake. Extra vitamins, such as a daily multivitamin, can also be beneficial.

Another important aspect of natural treatments for ADHD is exercise, which releases endorphins, increases brain blood flow and has positive effects on how well all your systems work. This is especially important for individuals with ADD who have sensitive systems and areas of the brain that are chronically underactivated. People with ADD should exercise at least three times a week, preferably doing an intense cardio workout to get their heart, body and mind going. Exercise releases the extra restlessness and energy from the body and mind of individual suffering from ADHD, and quiets everything down a bit. Consequently, it can be considered as excellent medication for ADHD.

Meditation is another natural form of treatment that is highly beneficial for individuals with ADD. Just sitting and breathing on your own for twenty to thirty minutes can significantly slow down your mind and settle your restless thoughts. When done regularly, meditation can have an extremely positive effect on your life.

Additionally, there are natural supplements you can take that can be considerably helpful to the individual suffering from ADHD. One of these is an amino acid that works somewhat like a stimulant, but is not as powerful or as harsh. It is called L-tyrosine, and it can be taken in doses of 500mg-1500mg three times daily for to achieve a positive effect. Some people will be more comfortable on the lower side, some on the higher side. L-tyrosine should be taken before meals.

Another supplement that can help with depressive and anxiety symptoms that tend to accompany ADD is 5htp. This can be taken in doses of 50-100 mg three times daily. 5htp produces serotonin and works somewhat like an SSRI antidepressant. This supplement can be quite helpful if you prefer not taking synthetic drugs.

Beneficial herbs for promoting calm are Mellissa, Passiflora, Chamomile, Skullcap, Albizza bark, which are all taken for depression.



By: Aliza Adar Levine

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There are many herbal and natural remedies out that may be helpful. Good herbs for promoting calm are Mellissa, Passiflora, Chamomile, Skullcap, Albizza bark, which all help for depression. Herbs like the ones mentioned are very safe. They can be bought at a local health food store and experimented with as teas. For real help, it is highly recommended to seek out a competant herbalist to prescribe a formula that is designed for your child, individually.

I have found TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine)herbal treatment to be very helpful for ADHD. But, of course you need to find a highly qualified individual, with a long track record of success. Another thing to look for is the willingness to discuss your child’s individual case, and then follow up with you.

The key to finding helpful remedies is to research, investigate and be smart about what you buy and put into your body. With ADHD, you need to be extra careful, because the bodies of ADHD sufferers can be more sensitive than most. Some natural products that can be helpful in easing symptoms of the disorder are available on the market.

Sheba Hospital, in Israel has developed a safe, natural ADHD treatment. The herbal compound called “Clarity” has proven highly effective in clinical trials.

One nutrient that can be helpful in treating the symptoms of ADHD is called L-tyrosine. This is an amino acid that makes up the building blocks of dopamine. If taken before meals, L-tyrosine can act somewhat like a stimulant, with no side effects. An individual may take a dose of 500 mg-1500 mg up to three times a day. L-tyrosine is a good alternative to a stimulant because its effects are softer than those of drugs like Ritalin and Adderall. Additionally, it wears off a lot easier and is much less harsh on the body. L-tyrosine can also be taken with prescription stimulants to enhance their effect.

DLPA is the amino acid precursor for norepinephrine. This neurotransmitter has been shown to be low in ADHD. Another effective supplement is called SAME, which can help with low grade depression, present in people with ADHD. SAME can be somewhat stimulating as well, and has been demonstrated to be helpful with the chronic pain condition fibromyalgia.

A nutrient that can be helpful in treating the symptoms of ADHD is PhosphatidylSerine, a phospholipid found in brain cells, specifically neurons. Another supplement, beneficial for treating ADHD anxiety and depression is 5htp, an amino acid precursor for the neurotransmitter serotonin. It actually increases the amount of serotonin in your brain, and can be quite helpful. SSRI antidepressants only recycle the serotonin that already exists in your brain; therefore 5htp is in some ways more effective.



By: Aliza Adar Levine

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One of the most important and probably the most difficult diseases to treat are diseases which affect the brain. Neurological diseases can be very tricky to cure. Thus treating ADHD or Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorders can be a challenging task.

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder or ADHD is a mental condition found in some children all over the world. A child with ADHD can be hyperactive, totally inattentive and impulsive at times. However, to label every child who demonstrates the above traits as with ADHD is highly inaccurate.

Why is treating ADHD difficult?

ADHD is a neurological disease which affects the behavior of an individual, especially, of children. Thus as is true for almost all neurological diseases the symptoms of ADHD may not always be the same.. Children suffering from ADHD normally show signs of impulsiveness, hyperactivity and restlessness. However this may not always be the case.

Even boredom is a symptom of ADHD. Also sometimes it can be very difficult to confirm whether a child is really suffering from ADHD or some other mental disorder. Also sometimes even normal children may show signs of ADHD. This can make the diagnosis even more difficult. Thus when the diagnosis itself is not accurate, treating the disease can be even more of a problem.

Treating ADHD:

The first step in the treatment of this disease is to ascertain correctly whether a child is really suffering from ADHD. A child suffering from this disease shows its symptoms on a much regular basis. He shows these signs in almost all the situations. Contrary to this normal children can show these signs but are less frequent and far less interspersed. Children suffering from ADHD show these signs mainly from the age of 7 years. Children suffering from ADHD can be treated in the following ways:

1) Consulting a good professional psychiatrist or a psychologist is the key in the process of treatment of ADHD.

2) Also conducting various psychological tests is important in the treatment process.

3) Simple, regular and balanced exercises can also be very useful in treating ADHD.

4) Parents of the children suffering from ADHD can also take the help of support groups where they can give the children individual activities which can help in improving the mental abilities of the children.

5) Doctors are averse in prescribing medicines and especially avoid giving medicines like Ritalin which can be harmful for the children.

Conclusion:

Treating ADHD can be hard work. It requires a lot of patience and determination especially on the part of the parents of the children suffering from ADHD. However as the saying goes ” Where there is a Will, there is a Way !”



By: Paul Hata

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Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a condition that becomes apparent in some children in the preschool and early school years. According to a majority of medical research in the United States, as well as other countries. It is estimated that between 3 and 5 percent of children have ADHD, or approximately 2 million children in the United States. ADHD is a common behavioral disorder that affects an estimated 8% to 10% of school-age children. Boys are about three times more likely than girls to be diagnosed with it, though it’s not yet understood why. Children with ADHD act without thinking, are hyperactive, and have trouble focusing. ADHD is currently considered to be a persistent and chronic condition for which no medical cure is available. ADHD is most commonly diagnosed in children and, over the past decade, has been increasingly diagnosed in adults. About 60% of children diagnosed with ADHD retain the disorder as adults. ADHD has also been classified as a behavioral disorder and a neurological disorder or combinations of these classifications such as neurobehavioural or neurodevelopmental disorders.

ADHD is common, affecting 4% to 12% of school-age children. It’s more common in boys than in girls. ADHD is a medical condition that affects how well someone can sit still, focus, and pay attention. People with ADHD have differences in the parts of their brains that control attention and activity. These symptoms appear early in a child’s life. Symptoms of ADHD will appear over the course of many months, often with the symptoms of impulsiveness and hyperactivity preceding those of inattention. ADHD is a developmental disorder that is often said to be neurological in nature. ADHD has also been classified as a behavioral disorder and a neurological disorder or combinations of these classifications such as neurobehavioural or neurodevelopmental disorders. These compounded terms are now more frequently used in the field to describe the disorder. Effective treatments for ADHD are available. ADHD is treated most effectively, and cost efficiently, with medication. Psychotherapy is another option, with or without medication.

Omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and magnesium mayhave benefits with regards to ADHD symptoms. Use tools that help you stay organized. Get plenty of exercise. Try this breathing exercise for starters. These medicines improve attention and concentration, and decrease impulsive and overactive behaviors. About 80 percent of children who need medication for ADHD still need it as teenagers. Over 50 percent need medication as adults. Some of the medicines for ADHD are methylphenidate , dextroamphetamine , pemoline , atomoxetine , and a combination drug called Adderall. Behavioral therapy (BT) helps people develop more effective ways to work on immediate issues. Social skills training can also help children learn new behaviors. Support groups help parents connect with other people who have similar problems and concerns with their ADHD children. Family counseling helps treat ADHD because it keeps parents informed and also shows them ways they can work with their kids to help.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Treatment Tips

1. Reduce seating distractions.

2. Use a homework folder for parent-teacher communications.

3. Always be on the lookout for positive behaviors.

4. Teach good study skills.

5. Omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and magnesium mayhave benefits with regards to ADHD symptoms.

6. Atomoxetine , has been tested in controlled studies in both children and adults.



By: Juliet Cohen

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