Manage attention deficit disorder the natural way

Natural approaches to ADD/ADHD
As research grows, natural and dietary approaches to dealing with or managing ADD are emerging. Some preventive and proactive natural treatments include:

Breastfeed babies
Children who are breast-fed for six months or longer seem to be less likely to develop ADD. One theory is due to the higher amount of omega-3 fat in breast milk.

Identify food allergies
It is not uncommon for a child's behaviour to be affected by food allergies. The most common food allergies are dairy, wheat, citrus, eggs, chocolate and soy.

Supplement with high-quality fish oil (omega-3)
Fish oil contains an essential fat called omega-3 essential fat. Research shows that children who suffer from ADD/ADHD are often deficient in omega-3 and its derivative, DHA.

Reduce screen time
Research has shown that for every hour of television children between the ages of one and three watch, their risk for developing ADD by the age of seven increases by 10 per cent.

Supplement with magnesium
Studies have shown that children diagnosed with ADHD have lower levels of magnesium. When supplemented with magnesium, hyperactivity behavior was significantly reduced.

Reduce refined flour and sugars in the diet
An overconsumption of white flour and sugar products (for instance cakes, cookies, pop) can trigger restlessness and hyperactivity in children.

The cause of ADD is unknown; possible causes include genetics, a dopamine deficiency or a different brain structure. Parents must not blame themselves or consider the diagnosis to be linked to a disciplining issue. When the behaviour is persistent, disruptive to the peace of the household or other children in the home, or lasts for longer than six months, help should be sought.

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