ADHD DietThe ADHD diet recently became a hot topic after a study concluded that yes, diet does play a role in managing ADHD (Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder).This study contradicted previous studies that stated there was no correlation. For years though, many parents have been trying different diets for ADHD. Some practitioners claim diet can help improve up to 60% of children with ADHD. Anecdotal reports have been as mixed as the research, and with the contradictory information, many parents are confused. So what does all this mean, and how can you organize this information to help your child? ADHD NutritionThe ADHD diet is not different from a normal, healthy diet all children should be following. Here are the steps to take to give your child the best ADHD nutrition possible.First of all, a healthy diet is essential. A diet high in fruit, vegetables, grains, lean protein and sources of Omega-3 fatty acids is imperative in helping your child be as healthy as can be. Next, eliminate food dyes and monitor your child closely for changes. If you see an improvement in your child’s ADHD, obviously continue to eliminate the dyes. Even if you don’t see much of a difference, think twice before adding them back. There are no health benefits from food dyes and additives, and foods with dyes aren’t going to fit into a diet filled with fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein and food high in Omega 3’s. Return to a whole foods diet and you will find you don’t have many added dyes anyway. Take a high quality Omega-3 supplement such as Coromega or Nordic Naturals. Many children with ADHD have very low levels of Omega-3 fatty acids, and many parents swear this is the key to improving their child’s behavior. Take a high quality multivitamin with minerals. Many of the common deficiencies are naturally replaced once the child returns to a natural, whole foods ADHD diet, however a multivitamin can help if your child is a picky eater or has a less than perfect diet. Many children with ADHD have low levels of iron, zinc, and magnesium, and a high quality multivitamin with minerals can help correct this. Consider food sensitivity testing. Research on the effectiveness of eliminating foods the child is sensitive to is building, and by working with a dietitian to eliminate these foods may be a key to improving your child’s behavior. For more information on whether your child would be a good candidate for this, make an appointment with us. ADHD nutrition can greatly improve the symptoms of ADHD. Try the recommendations above with the guidance of a doctor and see if your child can benefit from an ADHD diet.
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"I just want to say: Although the sudden plunge into no Vital Jr and no baby formula was cold turkey and not easy and super scary for me, a month later, I can say that my son looks really, really good physically, is now maintaining weight, and obviously feels a little more light and happy in his physical actions. Regardless of whether the GFCF diet will end up being necessary, I am thrilled beyond words that he eats REAL FOOD, not chemicals. The lighter, more frequent meals make me feel like I am finally not causing GERD and constipation faster than I can medicate it. Thank you, thank you, thank you for your help! I truly could not have done it without your help. And I feel confident that with continued tweaking with you his diet can get in more calories and complete nutrition, which makes me feel so good as a mother (especially of a chronically malnourished child, even in utero) that I am finally actually nourishing my child." See more testimonials.
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