ADHD Child Diet: What are the Best Options?
Can Diet Impact ADHD?
There is limited scientific data on how an ADHD diet affects sufferers, however, most health experts believe that diet can play a role in reducing or eliminating the symptoms of ADHD. Although diet is not a direct cause of ADHD, it can affect a child’s mental state. Because ADHD affects the brain, children with ADHD should eat foods that have a positive impact on the brain.
ADHD expert Daniel Amen makes several suggestions for individuals interested in altering their diet to alleviate ADHD symptoms. The doctor recommends eating a diet high in protein, carbohydrates and omega-3 fatty acids. Children with ADHD should also consider how simple carbohydrates could affect them. Foods such as honey, sugar, and corn syrup can potentially impact how a child with ADHD feels. However, healthier foods produce better moods.
There is controversy surrounding whether or not preservatives, artificial flavors and artificial colors could be contributing to ADHD in children. Conflicting studies have not confirmed whether or not eliminating preservatives and artificial flavors are necessary. However, the American Academy of Pediatrics states that it isn’t unreasonable for parents to consider eliminating food additives and artificial colors from their ADHD child’s diet.
Other ADHD Diet Considerations
Children with ADHD should also make sure they are getting a sufficient amount of water in their diet. The brain is composed of about 85% water, and increasing water intake is extremely helpful to a child’s thought process. Healthcare professionals typically recommend around seven glasses of water per day should suffice. It’s also vital to remember that sodas, teas, and fruit juices do not count as water.
A mineral supplement might also be a good idea for an ADHD child diet. Many children do not eat balanced diets that contain sufficient nutrients. This is especially true of children who have busy schedules. When choosing a vitamin supplement, parents and caregivers should consider choosing a supplement that contains Vitamin B complex. The B vitamins are linked to improved neural activity. B Vitamins are also notable for reducing stress, which is useful for children with ADHD.
Those who go on an ADHD child diet must remember that there is no cure for ADHD. Diet can only be used to lessen the effects of the disorder. In addition to a healthy diet, children with ADHD must remember to get regular exercise, a sufficient amount of sleep, and take any prescribed medications. Choosing a healthy diet is always best, regardless of whether or not the diet eliminates or reduces ADHD symptoms. Every child can benefit from eating a healthy diet and parents can help their child by encouraging fresh foods and regular meal times.
References
https://www.everydiet.org/diet/adhd-diet - Every Diet: ADHD Diet
https://www.healthcastle.com/adhd_diet.shtml - Health Castle: Best Diets for Kids with ADHD
https://www.webmd.com/add-adhd/guide/adhd-diets - WebMD: ADHD Diet Guide
https://www.adhdnews.com/adhd-diet.htm - ADHD News: ADHD Diet Suggestions and Information