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ADHD, also known as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, is a condition that is associated with hyperactivity and inattentiveness, and mostly affects children. This condition is often referred to as the most common behavioural problem faced by children.
It has been estimated that this condition affects almost 3-4 per cent of children, while boys are more prone to suffering from it. Diet is known to play a crucial role in the treatment of this condition. Given below is an effective diet plan for treating ADHD.
Foods that contain omega 3 fatty acids are considered helpful for children who suffer from ADHD. DHA is known to be an omega 3 fatty acid that is needed for the proper functioning of the brain. It helps in promoting alertness and memory retention.
Several research studies have also found out that children suffering from ADHD also suffer from EFA (Essential Fatty Acids) deficiency. Foods containing high amounts of omega 3 fatty acids include flax, olive oil, salmon, tuna, herring and sunflower seeds.
B vitamins are considered effective in the treatment, as they are helpful in boosting cognitive function and memory, in children suffering from ADHD. Vitamin B6 is a B vitamin that helps the brain to synthesize serotonin and dopamine, which are required for cognitive function. Foods that are good sources of B vitamins, especially vitamin B6 include kale, spinach, fortified cereals, salmon and tuna.
Children suffering from ADHD should not be given foods that contain high amounts of refined sugar. This is due to the fact that refined sugars drain out vitamins, minerals and other vital nutrients that are present in the body.
They also promote hyperactivity, which is a common symptom associated with ADHD. Common foods that contain refined sugars include aerated drinks, sweets, cakes and biscuits.
Children suffering from ADHD should not be given foods containing additives. Common additives are food colours and monosodium glutamate. Although the FDA has approved the use of food colours, they are still not safe for children suffering from ADHD. This is due to the fact that food additives trigger hyperactivity in children, thereby worsening the symptoms of ADHD.
Bad fats, such as saturated and trans fats should not be given to children suffering from ADHD. This is due to the fact that saturated and trans fats interfere with the correct functioning of the brain, thereby worsening the symptoms of ADHD.
Vitamin E is known to be a powerful antioxidant vitamin that is considered beneficial for children suffering from ADHD. This vitamin helps in destroying harmful free radicals in the brain, thereby increasing cognitive function as well as memory retention. The recommended daily intake of this vitamin is around 10-15 mg, depending on their age.
For treating ADHD, the dosage may be higher, therefore, consult your doctor regarding the correct dosage for treating this condition. Foods that are excellent sources of this vitamin include almonds, sunflower seeds, green leafy vegetables and soybean oil.
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This is already how we eat in my family and my daughter still has plenty of
ADHD symptoms. I guess it might be worse if we weren't eating so
healthfully! (And they don't claim that diet alone works.)