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Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a mental health condition that can begin in childhood and continue into adulthood.
According to the
For many children, symptoms of ADHD can be disruptive in certain environments or interfere with daily activities. Children with ADHD may have difficulty managing their behavior and emotions at school or in social settings. This may affect their social development or how they perform academically.
Common ADHD behaviors include:
- becoming easily distracted
- not following directions
- feeling impatient often
- fidgety
To treat ADHD symptoms, your child’s doctor may prescribe medications such as stimulants or antidepressants. They may also refer your child to a specialist for counseling.
However, you may also be interested in alternative treatments to help relieve ADHD symptoms. Some
Some supplements can bolster ADHD medication and help relieve symptoms of inattention, memory, mood, and cognitive function. Supplements can include vitamins, minerals, proteins, and fats.
The natural supplements for ADHD listed below have some research to back up their claims. The following supplements are the most popular for mitigating ADHD symptoms.
Zinc is an essential mineral that plays a vital role in brain health. A zinc deficiency may affect other nutrients that help with brain function.
According to
You may want to consider including more zinc-rich foods in your child’s diet. These foods include:
- oysters
- poultry
- red meat
- dairy products
- beans
- whole grains
- fortified cereals
If your child isn’t getting enough omega-3 fatty acids from diet alone, they might benefit from a supplement. Though, note that
Omega-3 fatty acids can boost the body’s synthesis of dopamine, the neurotransmitter that ADHD medications act to increase.
Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is a type of omega-3 fatty acid that’s essential for good brain health. People with ADHD typically
Dietary sources of DHA and other omega-3 fatty acids include fatty fish, such as:
- salmon
- tuna
- halibut
- herring
- mackerel
- anchovies
In addition, a
If your child has low iron levels, supplements might help. According to the
Talk with your child’s doctor before introducing iron supplements to their regimen.
Magnesium is another important mineral for brain health. According to a 2017 study, a magnesium deficiency can cause irritability, mental confusion, and shortened attention span.
But magnesium supplements may only be helpful if your child has a magnesium deficiency. There’s a lack of studies about how magnesium supplements affect symptoms of ADHD.
Be sure to talk with your child’s doctor before adding magnesium supplements to any treatment plan. At high doses, magnesium can be toxic and cause nausea, diarrhea, and cramps.
It is possible to get enough magnesium through your diet. Magnesium-rich foods include:
- dairy products
- whole grains
- beans
- leafy greens
Sleep issues can be a side effect of ADHD. While melatonin doesn’t improve symptoms of ADHD, it can help regulate sleep, especially in people with chronic insomnia.
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Before trying any new supplement or herbal remedy, be sure to talk with your doctor. What works for some people may not benefit your child the same way. Some nutritional supplements and herbal remedies interact with other medications your child may already be taking.
In addition to supplements and herbs, dietary changes may improve symptoms of ADHD. You may want to consider removing foods from your child’s diet that can contribute to hyperactivity. These include foods with artificial colors and additives, such as sodas, fruit drinks, and brightly colored cereals.
Some studies suggest that certain nutritional supplements such as zinc, magnesium, and melatonin can improve ADHD symptoms.
However, before trying a new alternative treatment, be sure to talk with a doctor. They can help you understand the potential benefits and risks of adding it to your child’s treatment plan.
