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The Right Diet for ADHD

ADHD, also known as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, has become increasingly more common among children and adults. Although there are pharmaceutical options for treating ADHD, taking medications can cause side effects, such as anxiety, facial tics and heart palpitations. Luckily, there are dietary changes that can help treat ADHD naturally with lasting effects.

  1. Add Omega Fatty Acids

    • According to Science Daily, omega fatty acids have been shown to reduce hyperactive behaviors and increase the attention span in both children and adults. Adding omega fatty acids into one's diet can help alleviate ADHD symptoms. Omega fatty acids can be found in certain natural oils, such as flaxseed, hempseed and cod liver oils. You can find these oils in either a capsule or liquid state at any health food store or natural foods market in the refrigerated section. Take the oil as directed on the bottle, or as directed by your naturopath physician.

    Eliminate Additives

    • Additives in foods include artificial coloring, artificial flavoring, preservatives, nitrates and nitrites. According to Psychiatric News, a study by the University of Southampton in England showed these additives to increase ADHD behaviors and even induce ADHD behaviors in people not suffering from ADHD. Eliminate all foods that contain additives from the diet, which may require reading the labels on all of the foods you purchase. Replace foods that contain these ingredients with whole foods, such as fresh fruits and vegetables and lean meats. By avoiding additives as much as possible, ADHD behaviors can be significantly reduced.

    Eliminate Allergens

    • According to "Food Allergy Testing for ADHD and Autism" by Dr. Louis B. Cady, food allergies can induce ADHD behaviors and can stem from a multitude of foods. Since every person reacts differently to foods, it is important to get a full allergy screening from your doctor or allergy specialist. This can help you or your child avoid the foods or allergens that could be inducing ADHD behaviors. A few of the most common food allergies are eggs, wheat, dairy, gluten and nuts. Try eliminating these allergens from the diet to see if you notice any marked improvement. If there is an improvement, the food allergen may need to be eliminated from the diet permanently.

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