ATTENTION DEFICIT HYPERACTIVITY (ADHD)

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Many more boys than girls suffer from the health condition known as ADHD. It usually starts by the age of three, although often diagnosis of ADHD is not made until the child attends school. Adults can also be affected by ADHD, although it’s mainly children. Signs of ADHD can include any of the following (although the child will probably not show all of the signs mentioned):

Health Condition Characteristics

Short attention span and lack of concentration
Impatience and difficulty with waiting
Unable to sit still for long
Impulsiveness
Temper tantrums
Learning difficulties, in spite of being of average or above-average intelligence
Finds it difficult to finish tasks or solve problems
Speech and hearing disorders (suspect middle ear infection and allergy)
Frequent mood swings
Disturbing other children
Poor sleep
Forgetfulness
Easily distracted
Head-knocking and self-destructive behaviour
Easy to anger
Criminal behaviour

Most cases of ADHD appear to be linked to food additives, food sensitivities and sugar. Naturally occurring salicylates and phenolic compounds are a problem in perhaps half of all cases. Hair mineral analysis showing high levels of metals such as lead, mercury, cadmium, manganese and copper are also implicated in ADHD.

ADHD Diet advice and nutrition facts

Ideally seek the help of a nutrition consultant who has experience of ADHD.
Have a test for food sensitivities and a hair mineral analysis for heavy metal toxicity. A nutrition consultant will be able to arrange these tests.
An elimination diet, again with the help of an experienced nutrition consultant or nutritionally aware physician can be helpful in identifying allergens, but take care that the child is receiving adequate nutrition.
Meanwhile, remove all refined sugars from the diet, including refined carbohydrates like white flour and white rice, all artificial chemicals such as BHA and BHT, colourings, flavourings, emulsifiers, preservatives, thickeners, vegetable gums, anti-caking agents such as calcium silicate, bleaching agents, and so on.
Unfortunately, many hyperactive children are also sensitive to naturally occurring salicylates and phenolic compounds, which include quite a few fruits. (See below for details on salicylates.)

As you can see, quite a bit of detective work is necessary but the hard work is often worth it when the child becomes happier in himself and easier to be with.

Salicylates

Many foods naturally contain salicylates, which is similar to aspirin. Salicylate-like compounds are used to flavour foods such as cake mixes, puddings, ice cream, chewing gum and soft drinks. Therefore stay away from any refined foods to be on the safe side. Most fruit, especially berries, raisins and prunes and other dried fruits contain salicylates. Liquorice and peppermint sweets are also high in salicylates, and nuts and seeds contain some. Certain herbs are particularly high in salicylates, including curry powder, paprika, thyme, dill, oregano and turmeric.

Safe foods as far salicylates are concerned include vegetables, legumes, grains, meat, poultry, fish, eggs and dairy produce. However, there may be some other food intolerances amongst these for individuals.

Possible food intolerances in order of likelihood:

Red dye
yellow dye
blue dye
preservatives
cow’s milk
soya
chocolate
grape
orange
peanuts
wheat
corn
tomato
egg
cane sugar
apple
fish
oats

Other considerations

Children with ADHD are twice as likely to have middle ear infections as other children. Middle ear infections (otitis media) can lead to moderate or severe hearing loss, which in turn can lead to impaired speech and language development and learning difficulties. Look for food intolerance, especially wheat and dairy, and compromised immunity and sugar intake.

Also ensure the child is getting sufficient nutrients. Several investigators have shown that correcting even mild imbalances or deficiencies can have a substantial influence on learning and behaviour. Poor nutrition and heavy metal toxicity also often go hand in hand – consider a good quality multivitamin and mineral supplement.

Counselling involving the whole family can also be helpful.

Health Supplements - ADHD

Often, a combination of supplements may help in alleviating this condition. You may wish to consult a nutritional therapist for personal advice. Supplements that may be helpful in alleviating symptoms are shown below: (please also read this important notice concerning supplement medical claims)

Children’s Multivitamins and minerals (vegetable capsules) (BioCare, Code 157) Recommended by the Hyperactive Children’s Support Group (H.A.C.S.G.)

Nutritional Supplement Recommended Intake:

Age 2-4 years 1 capsule daily
Age 5-6 years 2 capsules daily
Age 7-9 years 3 capsules daily
Age 10 & over 4 capsules daily

Or, if you prefer powder:

Vitaforte is a functional food made from whole, freeze-dried banana with no chemical additives or preservatives. It is also free from milk products and sugars. It should be alright unless the child is sensitive to bananas. Mix with food or water.

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