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Natural Diets for ADHD & ADD Kids

Parents of children with attention-deficit disorder (ADD) or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) often turn to a diet overhaul as a first step in managing their child's condition. Though doctors offer mixed reviews on the effectiveness of diet as a "cure" for either disorder, some parents believe that choosing their child's foods carefully helps in managing the symptoms of hyperactivity and inattentiveness that characterize ADD and ADHD.

  1. Shop for Natural Foods

    • A healthy diet for kids with ADHD or ADD should emphasize whole and natural foods, including organic meats, fish, eggs and organic vegetables. Use oats, brown rice and rye bread instead of white rice, bread or pasta. Nutrient deficiencies may contribute to ADHD. Pay particular attention to feeding children enough iron, B vitamins, and calcium.

    Shop Carefully For Fruits

    • Kids with ADD or ADHD often have a hypersensitivity to naturally occurring salicylates. Salicylates can be found in otherwise healthy foods, including apples, grapes, raisins, oranges, peaches and plums.

    Avoid Processed Foods

    • Sugar and food additives may increase hyperactivity in children. Avoid feeding your kid with ADD or ADHD foods high in sugar, or with added colorings, thickeners, preservatives or vegetable gum.

    Consider Possible Allergies

    • Food allergies may also trigger symptoms of ADD and ADHD. Common food allergies include soy, dairy, chocolate, peanuts, wheat, sugar, egg and corn. You may want to consider eliminating or greatly reducing these foods for your child's diet.

    Avoid Heavy Metals

    • Heavy metals found in foods may also cause of inattentiveness or hyperactivity. Avoid foods containing mercury, cadmium and manganese. Hair analysis can determine whether your child suffers from heavy-metal toxicity.

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