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Diet Plan for ADHD

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder affects around 8 to 10 percent of children. There are medications to combat the symptoms, but for a more natural approach to the disorder, parents and adults afflicted with ADHD are turning to a change in diet.

  1. The Feingold Diet

    • In response to the then newly recognized disorder, Dr. Benjamin Feingold proposed in 1979 "that the additives used in processed foods, especially artificial colors, artificial flavors, preservatives and salicylates induced hyperactivity in sensitive children and adults." This would essentially mean changing to an organic diet to be rid of these additives, because organic foods are cultivated without pesticides or herbicides, and under natural conditions.

    Omega 3 Fatty Acids

    • Further research into nutrition and natural health remedies for ADHD has shown that some dietary supplements can ameliorate the effects of the disorder; omega-3 fatty acids in particular are necessary for the brain's health. Omega-3 acids can be added to the diet by eating oily fish or supplements like flaxseed oil or primrose oil. Fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids include tuna, herring and sardines.

    A Sample ADHD Meal Plan

    • Some suggestions for meals for a daily ADHD diet plan include a breakfast rich in fresh organic fruit, whole-grain bread products and an organic protein source like eggs. Lunch could include a tuna fish sandwich with whole-grain bread and rich in omega-3 fatty acids, with a serving of vegetables like carrot or celery sticks. Dinner should be mainly organic vegetables, with a four-ounce serving of organic meat or fish. Snacks should consist of organic fruits, vegetables or nuts. Almonds and walnuts are the best nuts for snacking, as they are high in essential fatty acids. Water should be the main beverage for this diet, but include other organic drinks like milk or juice if necessary.

      Some of these changes can be difficult especially with children that are older and used to having other foods that are refined with numerous of additives, so make the changes gradually to make the transition easier. Younger children might be more adaptable to the change in diet immediately as they are still learning food preferences.

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