ADD and ADHD Diet

ADHD diet is a relatively unexplored option for treating ADHD, but there are reasonably strong indications that it can and does play a role in managing the disease.



Avoiding certain foods can certainly lessen the severity of the symptoms of ADHD, while consuming certain other foods provides some therapeutic benefits. It is however important to remember that dietary modification alone is not a sufficient or reliable treatment for ADHD.

ADHD and Diet

ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) is a neurobehavioural developmental disorder that mainly affects children, with the main symptoms being abnormally high levels of inattention, hyperactivity, and forgetfulness. ADD (attention deficit disorder) is one type of ADHD, and is now more commonly known as ADHD predominantly inattentive (ADHD-I or ADHD-PI).



The main treatment for these conditions consists of a variety of stimulants, but alternative treatments have also been proposed. Some research has noticed a link between ADHD and ADD and diet. So far, research has mainly uncovered deficiencies that seem to be linked to ADHD, and not much research has been done to determine whether dietary modification is an effective treatment.



However, assuming that correcting such deficiencies helps treat the disorder, the following suggestions may help:
Omega 3 fatty acids: Omega 3 fatty acids can be best obtained from food sources such as fish (particularly salmon, herring, and sardines), flaxseed, walnuts, and krill. A diet for ADHD must include some of these foods on a regular basis. In addition, omega 3 fatty acids are available in various supplements that can be bought over the counter.
Mineral supplements: Children suffering from these conditions have often been found to be deficient in zinc, magnesium, potassium, or iron. A good ADD diet should therefore ensure that the intake of these minerals is adequate. Zinc can be obtained from most animal products as well as from beans, nuts, and whole grain. Nuts and whole grain are also good sources of magnesium. Oranges and bananas are good sources of potassium. The best source of iron is meat, but in addition it can also be got from lentils, beans, and leafy vegetables.



Supplements are also available, but the best method of obtaining these minerals is directly from your food.
Artificial ingredients: Additives to food, such as artificial colors and artificial flavors, should be eliminated from an ADD and ADHD diet. These have been found to exacerbate the symptoms of ADHD.
Stimulants: Stimulants seem to decrease ADHD symptoms and improve the ability of patients to function normally. Caffeine and theobromine are safe stimulants, and can be obtained from coffee, tea, and chocolate. These substances should therefore be included in an ADHD diet.