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Dietary Supplements for Treating ADD

Attention deficit disorder, or ADD, lowers a child's ability to maintain mental focus and control impulsive behaviors. ADD can affect school performance, relationships and the child's self-esteem. Among other treatments, dietary supplements have been effective in keeping ADD under control.

  1. Omega 3

    • Consider giving a child with ADD omega-3 supplements. At Massachusetts General Hospital, researchers found that adding omega-3 fatty acids to the diet of children suffering from ADD helped reduce their symptoms dramatically (European Neuropsychopharmacology, February 2007). In 80 percent of children, symptoms of ADD were nearly eliminated after two weeks of taking the omega-3 supplement and eliminating processed foods.

    Gingko Biloba, St. John's Wort and Gotu Kola

    • Try an herbal supplement. The herb gingko biloba is prized for it's ability to improve circulation in the brain and memory ability. St. John's wort helps calm nerves and improve a child's mood. Gotu kola also helps eliminate anxiety and improve blood circulation and memory. Always consult with a doctor or naturopath before adding herbal supplements to your child's diet.

    Mineral Supplements

    • Add mineral supplements. Zinc is important for the production of melatonin, a crucial factor in the release of dopamine, which regulates feelings of satisfaction and pleasure. Adding zinc to a child's diet may help her to register feelings more readily, leading to less need to act out. Magnesium, calcium, iodine and iron may also be deficient in your child's diet. Vitamin and mineral supplements can help, along with maintaining a healthy diet and eliminating processed and sugary foods.

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