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Attention Deficit Disorder Natural Treatment

Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) is often treated with stimulant medications like Ritalin or nonstimulant drugs like Strattera. Some adults with ADD or parents of children with the disorder prefer, however, to try natural treatments. There is some evidence that natural methods like taking fish oil supplements or following a specific diet may ease ADD symptoms. Exercise has even been shown to be effective for some people.

  1. Fish Oil

    • Studies have shown that a daily dose of fish oil may help control ADD symptoms and improve behavior and concentration. Dr. Paul Montgomery, a British researcher, found that schoolchildren with ADD who were given fish oil for three months performed better in spelling and reading. They also behaved more appropriately in class. Although scientists don't know exactly why the oil helps, they suspect that it's because of the high omega 3 fatty acid content. Omega 3 acids are known to improve brain function.

    Diet

    • Many people use diets that eliminate sugar and caffeine as a natural treatment for ADD. There are other variations on ADD diets. For example, some eliminate artificial food dyes or potential allergens such as eggs, wheat or milk. The Mayo Clinic says that studies have not pinpointed a particular diet as being consistently effective. However, researchers have found that dietary changes reduce ADD symptoms in some people.

    Exercise

    • Studies have shown that exercise can be an effective treatment for ADD. According to a study by Dr. Frances Kuo of the University of Illinois, it may be particularly effective if it is done outdoors. The study showed that children who played outdoors were more attentive and had better impulse control than those who played inside a home. "Greener" settings, such as parks, had more benefit than plain outdoor environments such as asphalt playgrounds.

    Yoga

    • The Mayo Clinic says that yoga is showing promise as an effective natural ADD treatment. It increases concentration and teaches people with ADD to filter out distractions.

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