Do you or your child have trouble focusing, staying organized, or completing tasks? It could be attention-deficit disorder (ADD), also known as attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). If you (or a loved one) have
ADD/ADHD, you may think stimulant medication, such as Ritalin or Adderall, is the only answer. Wrong! Many natural ADD/ADHD solutions are backed by science.
Although research in the journal
Plos One found that the usage of stimulant medication for ADD/ADHD doubled from 2006-2016, it isn’t the only option. Other scientific findings show that
alternatives to ADD/ADHD medication can improve symptoms, such as:
- short attention span
- distractibility
- procrastination
- disorganization
- problems with follow-through
- poor impulse control
If you’re one of the 4.4% of adults in America who are affected by ADD/ADHD, or your child is among the over 6 million youngsters who have this condition, you may benefit from some of these natural strategies. In some instances, natural solutions can help reduce or eliminate the need for prescription stimulants. If you or your child are currently taking medication, be sure to discuss your situation with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your prescription medication.
Here are 7 science-backed secrets to healing ADD/ADHD naturally:
1. Nourish the ADD/ADHD brain with nutritional supplements.
A growing body of
research shows that nutritional deficiencies—including low levels of vitamin D, zinc, magnesium, and ferritin—are common in people with ADD/ADHD. Taking a high-quality daily multiple vitamin/mineral supports healthy levels of foundational nutrients. Similarly,
studies have found that those with ADD/ADHD generally have lower levels of important omega-3 fatty acids. Supplementing with omega-3s can improve issues with impulse control, attention, and hyperactivity, according to findings in
Translational Psychiatry and the
Journal of Lipids.
2. Avoid stimulating substances.
Kick the caffeine habit and eliminate the use of any nicotine products. At Amen Clinics, brain
SPECT imaging studies show that, over time, caffeine and nicotine reduce activity in the brain. During concentration in people with ADD/ADHD, there is typically lower activity in the prefrontal cortex, and this can be compounded with caffeine and nicotine use.
3. Get moving.
Physical exercise enhances blood flow and activity in the brain, which can improve focus and attention. The benefits of intense physical exercise are so great, it should be viewed as supplemental medication.
4. Put devices away.
Limiting screen time to no more than 30 minutes a day can make a significant difference in ADD/ADHD symptoms. A study in
Plos One found that preschoolers who spent more than 2 hours of screen time per day had “clinically significant” increases in ADD/ADHD symptoms, such as attentional problems.
5. Eat to heal ADD/ADHD.
Consuming a higher-protein, lower-simple carbohydrate diet can help with focus and attention in most people with ADD/ADHD. There is one exception, however. People who have
Over-Focused ADD—one of the 7 types of ADD identified by Amen Clinics—usually do better with a diet that includes higher levels of complex carbohydrates.
6. Find out if other issues are contributing to ADD/ADHD symptoms.
Issues, such as
head trauma,
depression, and
hormonal imbalances are common in people with ADD/ADHD. Another condition called
Irlen Syndrome, which is a visual processing problem, is commonly seen with the condition. Brain SPECT imaging, in addition to lab testing, can help determine the root causes of your (or your child’s) symptoms. Treating any underlying issues can be a critical part of the process of healing from ADD/ADHD.
7. Target natural treatments for your type of ADD/ADHD.
Brain SPECT imaging shows that there are
7 types of ADD/ADHD. Knowing which ADD/ADHD type you (or your child) have is an important step in finding the most effective natural solutions.
ADD/ADHD—as well as anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions—can’t wait. During these uncertain times, your mental well-being is more important than ever and waiting until life gets back to “normal” is likely to make your symptoms worsen over time.
At Amen Clinics, we’re here for you. We offer in-clinic brain scanning and appointments, as well as mental telehealth, remote clinical evaluations, and video therapy for adults, children, and couples. Find out more by speaking to a specialist today at 888-288-9834 or visit our contact page here.
