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What Natural Vitamins Are Needed to Help ADHD?

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is characterized by an inability to remain focused on one task for an extended period of time. Treatment for ADHD has typically been prescription medication, but natural treatments are also available.

  1. Magnesium

    • Magnesium is needed to regulate your heart rhythm, calm your central nervous system and promote cognitive function. Without a sufficient amount of magnesium, you may experience depression, anxiety and irritability. According to progressivehealth.com, people with ADHD generally have magnesium deficiencies. A normal level of magnesium can decrease hyperactivity in those with ADHD.

      To increase your magnesium levels, try supplementing your diet with a pill. Note that there are foods, however, that contain magnesium. These foods should be incorporated into your diet in order to try and control ADHD. Foods such as leafy green vegetables, whole grains that haven't been refined, and seeds and nuts all contain magnesium.

    Zinc

    • With proper levels of zinc in your body, you will have a healthier immune system, which is important for proper growth and also important during pregnancy. Zinc deficiencies have several symptoms, including inhibited growth, diarrhea, hair loss and loss of appetite. Those with ADHD have decreased amounts of zinc compared to those without ADHD, according to progressivehealth.com.

      Zinc can be found in a supplemental pill form. Natural sources for zinc include oysters, red meat, any kind of poultry, whole grains, beans and nuts. Add these foods into your diet.

    B Vitamins

    • B vitamins are responsible for an array of bodily functions. Mainly, B vitamins support a healthy metabolism. They also improve skin health, nerve cell maintenance and energy levels. Without adequate levels of B vitamins, you may experience soreness, rashes, chronic fatigue or other symptoms. According to anxiety-and-depression-solutions.com, having sufficient levels of B vitamins can improve concentration in people with ADHD.

      Leafy green vegetables contain vitamins B1, B2 and B3. B6, known as pyridoxine, is the B vitamin that may be most important in controlling ADHD. Pyridoxine is found in broccoli, chicken breast, potatoes, white rice, fruits and squash. You may also take a multivitamin for healthy levels of B vitamins. Be sure that your vitamin contains B6.

    Vitamin C

    • Vitamin C is important for a healthy immune system. In addition, vitamin C helps with collagen synthesis and iron absorption, and it is an antioxidant. By adding more vitamin C to your diet, your ability to focus and concentrate should improve. Vitamin C is most famously known for its presence in oranges and orange juice. You can also find vitamin C in kiwi, red bell peppers, strawberries, mangoes, spinach and broccoli.

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