ADHD NutritionADHD nutrition and the ADHD diet has been a hot topic. At one time some experts claimed a diet free of sugar, food coloring and food additives would help control the symptoms of ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder).Despite these claims, there is no convincing evidence that any special type of diet will help this disorder. The best thing to do would be to make sure your child follows a well balanced diet based on whole foods with minimal processed foods, and a good amount of physical activity. Since most children with ADHD are picky eaters and are on medication, a vitamin supplement is a good idea to ensure your child is getting the vitamins and minerals she needs. It is also a good idea to have your child take a high quality omega-3 fatty acid supplement such as Coromega. Although there is not enough evidence to say this will definitely make a difference, some studies show Omega-3 fatty acids help children with ADHD. Sugar is another hot topic when it comes to ADHD nutrition. Proponents of the ADHD Diet say sugar should be eliminated completely. Although sugar does not have many redeeming nutritional qualities and no one should be eating excessive amounts, there is no connection between ADHD and sugar intake. As far as food additives go, there isn’t much evidence to connect them to behavior problems or ADHD in children. Since additives aren’t healthy and don’t contribute anything good to a diet, please remember to build your child’s diet on whole foods. If his diet consists mainly of fruit, vegetables, whole grains, lean meats and low fat dairy there won’t be room to add anything with many food additives anyway. The bottom line is there’s nothing dangerous about eliminating food additives or sugar from your child’s diet. If they are picky eaters you may want to be careful about this and not eliminate too many things to fast, but the goal for every family should be a diet with minimally processed foods high in whole grains, fruits and vegetables. Return to Feeding Underweight Children Home from ADHD Nutrition. New! CommentsHave your say about what you just read! Leave me a comment in the box below. |
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