Alternative Treatments for Children With ADHD

Attention-deficit/hyperactive disorder (ADHD), a developmental disorder with potentially destructive symptoms, affects millions of children, according to MayoClinic.com. (See References.) Children diagnosed with ADHD sometimes suffer from poor grades in school and difficulty maintaining close friendships. Although medication is available to help control some of the symptoms of ADHD, some parents seek out alternative treatments as a supplement or a substitute to drug therapy.

Diet

• The Mayo Clinic reports that limited research indicates altering a child's diet can help parents control some of the symptoms of ADHD. Although more research is needed, some diets target the elimination of food allergens, including common triggers such as eggs, dairy and wheat. Other diets advocate eating foods that do not contain artificial preservatives, fillers or additives. Many ADHD diets restrict food stimulants such as chocolate and sugar. (See References.)

Behavioral

• Counseling and behavioral therapy might be beneficial for some children suffering from ADHD. Merck.com advises that a combination of therapy and medication can produce better results than therapy alone because the medicine might assist in alleviating some of the ADHD symptoms, allowing the child to better implement the new behavioral processes. Incentives and rewards programs can be effective for some children. (See References.)

Biofeedback

• Also called "neurofeedback training," this alternative treatment employs the use of a machine that measures the child's brainwaves as he performs various tasks. The child is aware of his brainwave patterns by way of printed feedback. With practice he can sometimes learn to limit his mental activity to a more desirable brainwave range, resulting in more appropriate behavior and concentration. (See References.)

Parenting techniques

• According to John Grohol, PSYD, at Psychcentral.com, parents sometimes find that by using positive reinforcement techniques they can help their child reduce undesirable behavior. Instead of punishment, the parent uses time outs and withholds rewards until the child's behavior improves. These parenting techniques might be more beneficial when they are combined with ongoing psychological counseling. (See References.)

Additional

• Less common methods of treating ADHD in children involve Chinese herbal formulations, fatty acid supplementation, glyconutrient therapy and mega doses of vitamins. Research is ongoing for some of these treatments. Be sure to consult your child's physician before you embark upon any alternative form of ADHD treatment.