ADHD & PDD-NOS Diet

An appropriate diet for people with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is similar to the diet that is ideal for those diagnosed with Pervasive Developmental Disorder - Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS). Limiting caffeine and sugar products ensures a more even mood that does not provoke symptoms associated with the disorders. A diet full of whole foods also is beneficial, increasing the amount of natural energy while balancing the nutrition of the body.

Caffeine and Sugar Free

• While some people believe caffeine helps to even out ADHD symptoms, overall the ingredient is harmful for the disorder. Caffeine causes many side effects in anyone, let alone someone who already has problems due to ADHD or PDD-NOS. Headaches, nausea and insomnia are just some of the negative effects associated with caffeine use.

  Removing caffeine from the diet of those diagnosed with ADHD and PDD-NOS helps to maintain a sense of balance. The lows and highs that typically occur with consuming caffeine disappear, and a more even mood is established.

  Sugar is equally unfavorable for ADHD and PDD-NOS symptoms. Sugar substitutes are also antagonistic since they have the same effect on the body. These unhealthy ingredients disrupt the chemical balance in the bloodstream and cause more agitation and hyperactivity.

  Doing away with sugar is another way to balance the body plagued with symptoms of ADHD and PDD-NOS. Any products that contain sugar or any form of chemical sugar substitute cause an unhealthy reaction that may irritate and cause distress. Eliminate them from the diet and a more balanced sense of being occurs.

Organic Whole Foods

• The chemicals and additives used in processed non-organic foods exacerbate symptoms of ADHD and PDD-NOS. Even when consumed in the womb, these chemical-laden products may affect both mother and child. Reducing artificial ingredients and increasing the amount of fresh organic foods help to improve the overall health while decreasing the severity of difficulties associated with the condition.

  Organic fruits and vegetables provide total nutrition for people with ADHD and PDD-NOS. Instead of obtaining artificial energy from sugars and caffeine, vitamin-rich foods sustain a person's spirit and vigor. Juices made by combining fruits and vegetables such as carrot and apple are delicious as well as nutritious. Juices also make it easier to consume the foods, especially if the person with ADHD or PDD-NOS has a texture aversion to them.

  By also eliminating pesticide consumption, organic foods further increase the benefits of eating whole foods. One of the most common pesticides used on fruits and vegetables, chlorpyrifos, adversely effects both psychomotor and mental development when digested in consistent amounts. Even the smallest amount can have an effect, although larger levels have a higher chance of causing problems. The best way to avoid any complications from chlorpyrifos or any other pesticide is to switch the person with ADHD or PDD-NOS to a completely organic diet.