Natural Remedies for ADD
A holistic approach to the treatment of Attention Deficit Disorder is of utmost importance. Whether the choice is of conventional medication or herbal medicine , certain natural remedies can complement the treatment that you have opted for.
An allergies to specific foods - The nutritional aspect plays an important role in restricting the side effects of conventional medication for ADD. Nutritional management in this case includes a restricted diet and supplements. Large numbers of ADD patients are known to be allergic to artificial food colorings and salicylates (salt of salicylic acid that occurs naturally as well as in some drugs). Salicylates are present in large proportions in un-ripened fruit and decrease as the fruit ripens. They are negligible in bananas and peeled pears and high in apricots, blackberry, prunes and blackcurrant. They are also found in the outer leaves of leafy vegetables.
Sugar intake - There is no medical evidence but experiment and observation suggests that sugar, especially refined sugar, causes ADD. There is no harm in restricting sugar as practically all healthy diets eliminate sugar consumption. Children, however have different nutritional requirements and the decision regarding the diet for children with ADD symptoms should be taken in consultation with a nutritionist to avoid malnutrition.
Dairy products - Diary products, especially milk, should be avoided.
MSG - Processed foods that contain Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) should also be limited. Avoid fried foods and junk foods that have no nutritional value and only add to your problems.
ADD is considered to be caused by low levels of dopamine, a brain chemical that is responsible for making people feel good. This chemical activates the frontal lobes in the brain which is where most feelings, sensory perceptions and executive functions originate.
Vitamin B3 and trace elements of iron help in conversion of enzymes into dopamine. As such, vitamins can improve learning abilities and control hyperactivity.
Essential Fatty Acids
Researches reveal that one of the differences between ADD patients and those without it is the level of essential fatty acids in the body. The two types of essential fatty acids, Omega 3 and 6 are not synthesized by the body on its own and must necessarily be taken as diet. The best source of Omega 3 fatty acids are salmon, mackerel and herring, while sunflower, soybean and corn oil are rich in Omega 6.
ADD is usually diagnosed early in life, which provides an opportunity to try different therapies for treatment and opt for the one that is most appropriate. Herbal remedies should probably be tried, especially if there is an underlying desire to avoid possible side effects of conventional medication.
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