Diet in ADHD (Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder)

Introduction:

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is an impaired symptom of inattention or hyperactive and impulsive behavior that hampers the child's growth. It is a child psychiatric disorder with a prevalence of six percent worldwide. A few problems faced by children with ADHD are poor academic progress, substance abuse, social isolation, aggressive behavior, and delinquency. Some psychiatric disorders like oppositional defiant disorder, autism spectrum disorder, or conduct disorder are diagnosed well, along with 50 to 60 percent of people with ADHD. There are chances of suffering from high economic costs resulting in a long-term burden on the family where at last, it is seriously affected by ADHD.

What Is an Ideal ADHD Diet Given to People?

Ideally, eating habits help the brain work better and lessen symptoms such as restlessness or lack of focus. It includes all the foods individuals take and should consist of any nutritional supplements. Some of the diet choices are given below they are:

• Supplementation Diet for an ADHD Individual: This diet includes vitamins, minerals, or other nutrients in the food. Because some people will not get enough supplements from their food, this idea of adding accessories to the diet of an ADHD individual will help them to reduce their symptoms.

• Overall Nutrition to the ADHD Diet: Some people believe that eating fewer foods will help to make the symptoms better. And also assume that there are chances of better or worse symptoms by eating certain foods.

• Elimination Type of Diet in ADHD Individuals: This method helps people avoid eating a few foods or ingredients that will trigger specific behavior or worsen symptoms.

Why Is Nutritious Food Added to the ADHD Diet?

• There is limited data and mixed results about the ADHD diet because it is not researched. So many health experts think that based on what foods and drinks individuals take in their diet can help to reduce ADHD symptoms.

• Experts think anything good for the brain will automatically benefit ADHD people. So, every individual with ADHD should eat more:

1. Omega-3 Fatty Acids:

The rich sources of omega-3 fatty acids are tuna, salmon, and other cold-water white fish. These are also found in walnuts, brazil nuts, olive, and canola oils. Omega-3 fatty acids can also be taken as supplements as the FDA has approved an omega compound called Vayarin, which is used to reduce the symptoms of ADHD disease.

2. Complex Carbohydrates Are Given More:

A complex carbohydrate is a good option which includes mainly vegetables and some fruits like oranges, tangerines, kiwi, grapefruit, apples, and pears. By consuming this type of food, better sleep is produced at night times.

3. A High Protein Diet Is Added to ADHD Individuals:

It includes beans, cheese, eggs, meat, and nuts. Protein sources help to improve concentration and make ADHD medication work longer; it is generally given in the morning or after school snacks.

What Foods Are Avoided for ADHD Individuals?

People should avoid simple carbohydrates, and a few foods to stop eating in ADHD people are:

• Corn syrup.

• Honey.

• Products made from white flour.

• White rice.

• Candy.

• Potatoes with skin.

• Sugar.

What Nutritional Supplements Are Given to ADHD Individuals?

• ADHD people who eat regular and balanced diets do not require vitamin or micronutrient supplements, as a few nutrition experts suggested. Still, some experts think that ADHD people should compulsorily take 100 % vitamins and mineral supplements.

• However, no scientific evidence proves that vitamins and mineral supplements will not help all children with ADHD.

• This disorder is seen in children, teens, and adults who do not eat a balanced diet and can take multivitamin supplements.

• Large doses of supplements are avoided because they can be toxic.

• Every individual having this disorder should be considered to take this supplement because, from person to person, the ADHD symptom varies.

How to Eliminate Diets for ADHD Individuals?

Choose a food or item that may exacerbate the symptoms as the initial course of action. Anything from that food should then be avoided. Furthermore, it can be completely prevented if symptoms go away or become better. However, research on whether reducing food intake will alleviate symptoms is still ongoing, and conclusive data has to be presented. Concerning ADHD, the majority of scientists do not advise this kind of strategy; however, specialists do propose that there are a few common areas to take into consideration. These include:

1. Caffeine:

• Studies show that a small amount of caffeine helps with some ADHD symptoms in children, but any potential benefit of caffeine will surpass its side effects.

2. Sugars:

• No evidence suggests that sugar intake is the leading cause of ADHD. Because after eating candy or sugar, some children become hyperactive.

• Sugary foods should be a small part of anyone's diet to form the best overall nutrition.

• But if symptoms are improved, one can reduce sugary substances.

3. Food Additives:

• An allergist originally suggested in 1975 that some children's hyperactivity may have been caused by artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives added to their food. Researchers and specialists in child behavior have been engaged in a heated discussion ever since. However, one study found that adding food coloring and preservatives to a child's diet can cause hyperactivity. The effects vary depending on ingredients and age.

• Eliminating preservatives and food coloring from the diet is now the recommended course of action for children with ADHD, according to new studies published in the American Academy of Pediatrics. Some specialists advise against using the following substances:

  • Red and yellow artificial colors.

  • MSG (Monosodium glutamate), aspartame, and nitrates are a few additives that cannot be used.

  • Some studies show that sodium benzoate also helps induce hyperactivity in ADHD children.

Conclusion:

Only in selective ADHD individuals only additive-free and elimination diets indicated because it is a time-consuming process that disrupts household activities. To enhance the effectiveness of stimulant therapy in ADHD, individuals with known deficiencies should administer iron and zinc supplements. Omega-3 supplements are used as a trial mode for patients not responding to medication. Educating the children and parents by omitting the items predisposing the ADHD symptoms is the most promising and practical complementary alternative treatment, which shows greater attention.