Supplementation and ADHD

Many people that have children who have been diagnosed with ADHD or that have it themselves have wandered if vitamins and supplements can help with ADHD as an alternative to medication. This has been a question I seem to get asked often so I thought I would share what I’ve learned about supplementation and ADHD with my training and research. Since I am not a health professional, I recommend you seek help with one that is open to alternative medicine.

What is ADHD?
Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) seems to be a common developmental and behavioral disorder characterized by lack of concentration, distractibility, hyperactivity, and impulsiveness that are inappropriate for the child’s age. 

Over the past few decades, alternative or complementary medicine has grown in popularity. More and more people are looking for nontraditional approaches to personal health and healing. These diverse remedies are sometimes used in the place of typical medical approaches. Several alternative remedies are safe, relatively affordable, and easily accessible. They also very rarely have the harmful side effects.

It is important to get educated on what works and what doesn’t even if it is a natural supplement, there is no guarantee its safe. Here are a few supplements that have been researched and have shown to be beneficial with ADHD as well as ADD:

·         Zinc – Some studies have shown that children with ADHD have lower levels of Zinc in their body.  And some scientists have reported improved symptoms in children with ADHD who took zinc supplements along with traditional medicine.

·         Omega 3 - There is some evidence that fish oil can help improve ADHD symptoms. Fish oil contains omega-3 fatty acids. Some studies suggest, in children with ADHD who are 8 to 12 years old, fish oil supplementation could improve mental skills. For instance, it may help improve a child's ability to organize activities.

In a study published in a 2007 issue of the "Journal of Developmental and Behavioral Pediatrics," researchers studied the affect of fish oil and evening primrose oil on children aged between 7 to 12 years with ADHD. In the background to their study they explain that various developmental problems including ADHD have been linked to deficiencies in polyunsaturated fatty acids.

·         Carnitine – Is an amino acid which is important for energy production.
The University of Michigan recommends taking 100mg of carnitine for each 2.2 pounds of body weight, up to a maximum of 4g daily, to help improve behavior.

·         Magnesium – According to the University of Michigan children with ADHD may have low levels of magnesium. A 1997 study published in "Magnesium Research" found that 200mg of magnesium daily for six months reduced hyperactive behavior in children with ADHD.

Finally, diet also plays a big part in reducing symptoms of ADHD. Children who have healthy diets; plenty of fruits and vegetables, whole grains and organic meats, can also improve symptoms.