All too often, parents are quick to place their children on a regimen of pharmaceuticals as treatment for an ADD/ADHD diagnosis, but medication is not the only way to offer relief to your child. On the contrary, medications often come with a long list of harmful side effects.
Natural remedies for ADD/ADHD can be more effective than prescription medications, depending on the individual. There are cases where nothing will seem effective, but you owe it to your child to try natural treatments before pumping them full of manmade chemicals.
Take a quick look at a few organic solutions to the challenges of ADD and ADHD.
Dietary changes that can help treatment
The experts recommend that a child with ADD/ADHD should have a diet rich with fruits and veggies, lean proteins, and complex carbs to adequately maintain nutrient levels in the body.
It is common for children with ADD or ADHD to have certain nutritional deficiencies which exacerbate behavioral expressions. Simple changes in diet, sleep patterns, and routine have shown to be effective when properly augmented.
Complex versus simple carbohydrates
You’ve probably read several articles highlighting the negative effects of too much sugar in your child’s diet, but not all sugars are bad. In fact, carbohydrates (which are converted into sugar in your body) are essential to our survival.
The trick is to intake more complex carbs. Simple carbs like waffles and white bread are broken down too quickly in the body, causing sharp rises and falls in glucose levels. Complex carbs, paired with protein break down much slower, giving the body time to adjust to the changes, and reducing mental confusion.
Omega-3 supplements have proven effective
Omega-3 fatty acids are well known for their beneficial effects on heart health, but they have a special effect on children with ADD/ADHD. Several comprehensive studies have shown that a proper balance of Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids have a reasonably moderate effect on the symptoms of ADD/ADHD in children.
Zinc is therapeutic for hyperactivity
Sometimes, lowered levels of Zinc in your child’s body can contribute to the negative physical effects of ADD/ADHD. Taking Zinc supplements will help reduce hyperactivity and impulsivity in your child, but is not aimed towards boosting concentration and attentiveness.
You should consult your child’s pediatrician before administering a daily dose of Zinc. Doctors recommend, no matter the situation, your child should not take more than 20mg per day.
Magnesium will help your child sleep and relax
Maintaining healthy levels of magnesium in your child’s body will help him/her to feel more relaxed. Magnesium is great for sleep deprivation or restless sleep, but always consult your child’s doctor before adding a new variable to their treatment.