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Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) or Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD) is the fastest growing diagnosis given to children and adolescents in the United States. We've all heard of it; the "problem-child" label placed on children who display symptoms of having difficulties learning or paying attention, or who may be judged as being overactive with behavioral problems. Parents and teachers perceive these children as unmanageable or hard to control.
MoonDragon's Health & Wellness: Hyperactivity, Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD, ADHD)
ADD OVER DIAGNOSED
Why is this diagnosis becoming so common among children? What may be happening in a child's mind/body to cause them to be affixed with this label? First of all, many kids diagnosed with ADD/ADHD are not actually learning disabled or hyperactive. ADD/ADHD is sometimes diagnosed based on a five-minute interview with the parent and a quick rating sheet from a rushed doctor. Over-diagnosis is a huge problem. Many of these children have no disorder at all; they are simply healthy, highly active, exuberant, strong-willed kids who can be very irritating to teachers trying to teach within a rigid system.
GIVING CHILDREN LABELS
Children are naturally active, exuberant, easily distracted and, at times, very uncooperative. Unfortunately, this society does not understand and honor the truly amazing exuberance of a remarkable child. Our public schools are not designed to embrace these qualities in children. Nor do they honor a child's unique learning style and developmental readiness. Children are made to sit still at a desk for hours at a time, work on a task within the time allowed, memorize everything the teacher says is so, and be quiet little robots in order to not be distracting. When children can do this, they are considered "normal." Those who do not comply or exhibit strong reactions to this stifling environment or become "fidgety" are given the problem-child label, since they do not conform to society's idea of how children should act. They are considered a disruption and an inconvenience to parents and teachers. However, these children are usually very creative, curious and intelligent. They may have their own unique learning style. They want to learn and are quite able to do so, but cannot adapt to the typical school environment. Usually, when children are allowed to develop their own natural, innate learning abilities to the full extent in an unconstrained environment and know that their parents and teachers believe them to be capable, they will excel.
There is a common misperception that the cause of ADD/ADHD is a malfunction in the brain or neurological system. After searching for many years, no dysfunction has ever been found in the brain. There is no concrete medical condition. Attention Deficit Disorder has never been proven as a disease, even after 20 years of research. According to Rita Kirsch Debroitner, R-CSW and Avery Hart, MA in the book Moving Beyond ADD/ADHD - An Effective Holistic Mind/Body Approach, "saying that someone has ADD, with or without hyperactivity, is like saying a person has RND, Runny Nose Disorder, with or without fever." ADD or ADHD are labels that mental health and primary care physicians have used to describe a situation that they see frequently. These labels give them a way to talk about it.
Then what is really going on? I don't want to minimize what is happening with children who really do havea problem. I just want to point out that there are children being diagnosed with ADD/ADHD that are perfectly fine, but misunderstood. However, symptoms of ADD/ADHD are definitely real in some children. Many parents are at their wits end with trying to find help for their children who really are "out of control." Some children do have serious learning and behavior problems that need to be addressed. However, placing a label on them, telling them they have a brain disorder and giving them dangerous drugs is harming rather than helping them. What does this do to a child's self-image and respect for his or herself? As in any health problem, the root cause needs to be addressed first for healing to take place.
KNOWN OR SUSPECTED CAUSES
What causes ADD/ADHD? There are many known or suspected causes, including exposure to toxins, alcohol or drugs before birth, poor nutrition, chemical or food allergies, toxins in the environment, metal toxicity and yeast over growth. Childhood vaccinations have also been linked to learning disabilities and attention problems, but a direct causal effect has not been proven because long-term studies of vaccinations are not done. Routine watching of television can also be a contributing factor. Studies have linked TV to increased hyperactivity. Sadly, it is very common for children to sit in front of the television set for hours at a time going brain-dead.
ARE DRUGS THE ANSWER?
The high numbers of children being prescribed mind-altering stimulant drugs are staggering. These drugs (including Ritalin and Dexedrine) don't help a child to learn better; they just calm them down. With drugs, children become more compliant and easier to control, but suffer from serious side effects. These side effects include nausea, stomach aches, headaches, facial tics, insomnia and depression, loss of appetite and weight loss. Children on Ritalin can become robotic, spacey, listless, anxious and emotionless.
According to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), there has been a 1,000% increase in drug abuse injury reports involving Ritalin for children in the 10-14 year age group. The DEA classifies Ritalin and Dexedrine as Schedule II drugs, along with opium and morphine, both addictive drugs. Children without prescriptions are buying or stealing these drugs from children who have prescriptions. More importantly, it is a tragedy for children to believe that something is wrong with their brain and that a pill is the only thing to make them "normal" and be able to control themselves or function properly. This way of thinking strips children of all power and ability to make their own decisions and think for themselves. Another problem with drugs is that they do not address the cause of the problem; therefore it continues and even gets worse, due to more toxic assault on the body.
Why does the medical industry continue to prescribe these dangerous drugs to children? Why do parents accept these prescriptions? One answer may have to do with big profits. There are huge profits for pharmaceutical companies in the drugs themselves and making this into something that needs a medical diagnosis provides more business for doctors. Understandably, parents want desperately to see their child functioning well and welcome the drugs as an easy answer. Yet, another answer is simply that the drugs do calm children down. However, in using these drugs, there is too big a price to the child's physical health and mental state.
SOLUTIONS & ALTERNATIVES TO DRUGS
Centering & Grounding
Fortunately, there are alternatives to dangerous drugs that do not simply mask the symptoms, but actually get to the cause of the problem and allow a child to be vitally healthy. Debroitner and Hart in Moving Beyond ADD/ADHD say they have seen hundreds of individuals effectively move beyond ADD/ADHD, making a full and complete recovery without the use of drugs. They say the key to recovery is centering and grounding which is lacking in children diagnosed with ADD/ADHD. The tools and techniques that they use to promote centering and grounding include breathing exercises, balancing the brain with music and poetry, eye focusing, and working with root points and acupressure techniques to rebalance and calm a child's energy.
Brain Gym/Edu-Kinesiology
Brain Gym/Edu-Kinesiology was developed for children with learning disabilities by Dr. Paul Dennison, Ph.D., a learning specialist. Brain Gym/Edu-K balances and integrates the whole brain using simple and enjoyable movements and exercises. It helps children to focus and center, empowering them to use their brain more effectively. It has been endorsed by the National Learning Foundation.
HOMEOPATHY
In an article published in the New England Journal of Homeopathy entitled Children, Attention and Homeopathy, Randall Neustaedter, OMD, Lac explores our culture's rigidity in expecting "conformity, rational behavior and a predictable civilized style of being in children." He suggests that "the more a culture values self-exploration and harmony with the forces of the multidimensional world around us the less use we will have for diagnostic terms like ADD." Homeopathic remedies are prescribed based on an in-depth, detailed description of the child. Dr. Neustaedter describes an in-depth approach to understanding the child by assessing his/her emotional responses as well as mental and physical symptoms. He writes that "choosing a remedy hinges upon the essential nature of the child as well as the subtle character of symptoms."
DIET & NUTRITION
A Huge Part of the Problem & Solution
Children have specific and complex nutritional needs that are not met with the standard American diet. It is absolutely essential to take a look at what a child is eating. As Sandra Hills, N.D. and Pat Wyman, M.A., the authors of What's Food Got To Do With It?, point out "health and your child's wellness mean much more than having a child who can remain quiet long enough so the adults in his or her life can get something done." They go on to say that "learning requires optimal health and brain function; if a child is eating the wrong foods or those foods which are deficient in the proper nutrients, his or her ability to learn will be compromised." There is no question that food affects behavior, memory and learning ability. Diet and nutrition may be the cause and the remedy of a learning disability or ADD/ADHD.
A typical child's diet contains large amounts of packaged foods with unnecessary, harmful ingredients. These over-processed foods are vitamin and mineral deficient and full of pesticides. If you shop in a typical grocery store, 85-90% of foods you buy are refined and processed. Our soils are depleted of essential minerals. In addition, freezing, frying and overcooking minimize the vitamin content. Too many children begin their school day with sugary donuts or other sweets and continue to eat them throughout the day. Sugar can affect a child's ability to pay attention and can cause them to be overactive and irritable.
In 1979-1983 one million school children in New York City were involved in a study based on the Feingold diet. Over this four-year period, the schools eliminated artificial colors, flavors and preservatives and reduced the amount of sugar in the cafeterias food. This resulted in a 41% increase in national test scores. For more information on the Feingold Diet, contact the Feingold Association at http://www.feingold.org.
Sugar can be a contributor to learning disabilities and hyperactivity (as well as a destroyer of general health and immunity). It literally robs the body of important vitamins and minerals, particularly the B vitamins, which are needed for thinking, coordination and memory. A child's blood sugar will drop about 20 minutes after eating sugar, leading to a lack of oxygen to the brain. This can cause forgetfulness and affect ability to concentrate. Sugar increases adrenaline levels, which can also interfere with learning as well as increase anxiety and irritability. Sugar can be an addiction as severe as any other drug addiction. Many children are addicted to sugar, eating it regularly instead of the important nutritious foods their bodies and minds need to function well.
Related article:
Sugar N Spice
ALLERGIES & ENVIRONMENTAL ILLNESS
Many kids who are considered to have a learning disability, hyperactivity or problems with paying attention are actually suffering from food or environmental allergies, which can cause abnormal learning patterns and symptoms. Some of the signs to look for in detecting allergies are red cheeks, red ears, eye circles, puffy eyes, eye wrinkles, bloated belly, rubbing nose and mottled tongue. It takes some detective work to find the specific cause or causes of a child's problem. Cow's milk is one of the biggest culprits of allergies in children. It may be a good idea to remove all milk products for at least a month and watch for signs of improvement. Other foods that can cause allergies are wheat, corn, soy, eggs, citrus and peanuts.
Molds, dust, chemicals used for cleaning, perfumes, pesticides and other toxins may be the cause of your child's problem. Environmentally sick schools or homes can cause a child to become very sick and display symptoms of ADD/ADHD. Doris J. Rapp, M.D., a leading specialist in Environmental Medicine and founder of the Practical Allergy Research Foundation has a wealth of information on the causes and solutions to environmental illness on her website and through the Foundation.
Related Articles:
Allergies & Environmental Illness by HealthyChild.com
MoonDragon's Health & Wellness: Allergies
Additional things to look out for are chocolate, nitrates (found in hot dogs, bacon and luncheon meats), MSG, caffeine, artificial colors and preservatives, and any foods with hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated oils. Read the labels on almost all packaged foods and you will find some of or all of these ingredients listed.
Related Article:
Essential Fatty Acids
METAL TOXICITY
Metal toxicity is suspect in learning disabilities. In his book Healing Through Nutrition, Melvyn Werbach, M.D. talks about several studies which closely tie metal toxicity to learning disabilities. He says the findings suggest that aluminum toxicity may play a role in learning problems. Aluminum toxicity can come from drinking from aluminum cans, water with high aluminum content, eating foods with pesticides and additives in the soil, deodorants containing aluminum (most do), and heavy pollution. Arsenic, mercury, cadmium and lead are other toxic metals. Even low-level lead exposure impairs children's intelligence. Lead is present in certain paints, enamels, glass, ink printing materials, lead crystal, crayons and some drinking water. Even if the water itself does not contain lead, it still may be leached into the water from lead plumbing so it is important to check the water at your child's school and your home. You can purchase a lead test kit for the paint in your home. There is a blood test available to test the level of lead in your child's bloodstream. The long-term effects of lead poisoning include learning disabilities, decreased growth, brain damage and even death in children. In children with elevated blood levels of lead, symptoms include stomachaches, loss of appetite, decreased interest in play and excessive activity, fussiness or irritability.
YEAST OVERGROWTH
An overgrowth of yeast in the body may be a contributing factor of learning disabilities, attention deficit, and hyperactivity in some children. Yeast overgrowth can occur when repeated doses of antibiotics are given to children. Antibiotics weaken the immune system by destroying the beneficial bacteria, allowing yeast to grow rapidly. Yeast feeds on sugar so an overgrowth can be suspected in a sugar-addicted child. William Crook, M.D. writes about this in his books The Yeast Connection, The Yeast Connection Handbook and his booklet Hyperactivity and the Attention Deficit Disorder. Getting the yeast under control may be a major step in recovering from ADD/ADHD.
NUTRITIONAL SUPPLEMENTS
One of the most important factors in the solution of ADD/ADHD is optimal mineral intake and absorption. Many children are deficient in important minerals, which are essential for proper body and brain functioning. One or more mineral deficiencies are usually found in children classified as learning disabled, and mineral supplementation may be necessary. Be certain you are getting a high quality supplement since some contain sugar, food colorings or other fillers. Avoid supplements containing lactose if your child is milk-sensitive. Metallic minerals in tablet form are not absorbed very well. Chelated minerals in capsule form are more available to the body. There is much debate on the subject of colloidal minerals. Some say colloidal minerals are highly absorbable by the body and the most effective way to get minerals. However, there is a lack of research to document this claim. The authors of What's Food Got To Do With It? say they use Twinlab mineral formulas or the Now brand form of colloidal minerals with good results.
Organically grown vegetables are important to increase your child's mineral intake. Superfoods like barley green, chlorella, algae, spirulina and wheatgrass have maximum vitamin, mineral and amino acid concentrations. I've seen reports about Cell Tech's Super Blue Green Algae having success with ADD/ADHD. Research is currently being done on the affects of algae on ADD/ADHD.
Lecithin is a very powerful brain food. It boosts memory and concentration. Lecithin contains the B vitamin choline. Choline can boost the brain's memory power for four or five hours after eating. Choline is found in egg yolks, lean beef, fish, wheat and soybeans. Phosphatidyl choline is the strongest form of lecithin. The powder can be stirred into food or juice.
Concentration and memory are specifically connected to levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain. Too many or too few neurotransmitters will cause over or under reactions, such as acting out, feeling depressed or hyperactivity. Amino acids are precursors to neurotransmitters. They are necessary in order for the brain to receive and send messages. If the diet contains inadequate amounts of the essential amino acids, physical symptoms will appear. Brain cells must be fed constantly with amino acids, vitamins, minerals, oxygen and fatty acids. Amino acids boost brainpower and mental clarity and enhance memory and concentration. They have been medically proven to calm hyperactivity. Nutritional yeast, barley grass, spirulina and algae are all high in amino acids.
SUMMARY
Using centering and grounding techniques, eliminating processed foods, chemicals and allergens, and eating an organic whole foods diet can help children to function at their highest level of health. It is much more difficult to go this route than to accept a drug as a magic potion. It takes time, persistence and effort for both parent and child. It's not easy to change the diet of a child who is completely attached to unhealthy foods. Usually, the whole family needs to cooperate. However, there are huge payoffs in the behavior changes and the overall health and happiness of the child as well as the entire family.
Use the information provided in this database as an educational resource for determining your options and making your own informed choices. It is not intended as medical advice or to diagnose, prescribe, or treat any specific illness. If there is any chance your child is seriously ill, take him or her to a qualified health professional for evaluation.
VACCINATION LINKS
COMPLEMENTARY & ALTERNATIVE THERAPIES
BIOFEEDBACK: Biofeedback uses repeated exercises to create or improve pathways of attention and impulse control. The desired result is to help a person create an appropriate mental state for a given situation, such as listening to instructions. Although biofeedback is unlikely to cause physical harm, more research is needed to determine if it might be effective in treating ADHD.
HOMEOPATHY: Homeopathic remedies, taken in small doses, may be helpful in relieving certain symptoms of ADD/ADHD. These are some examples of homeopathic treatments:
- Stramonium (for nervousness and tremors).
- Cina (for restlessness).
- Hyoscyamus niger (for impulse control).
- Gelsemium (can help relieve anticipatory anxiety).
- Ignatia (can help to alleviate anger or temper tantrums).
BEHAVIORAL INTERVENTIONS: Children with ADHD, according to Paul Wender, M.D. (Professor of Psychiatry, University of Utah) are "difficult to reward and difficult to punish". It is as if they lived in an "emotional raincoat", one which prevented them from fully experiencing emotions directed toward them. While this can keep them from feeling the full effects of their problematic behaviors, it makes modifying these behaviors very difficult. This is one of the reasons many parents report that behavior modification systems work for only a very short time (2-3 weeks at most) with these children.
Among the most effective ways of dealing with ADHD children is Back In Control, a behavioral intervention program based on RULES.
BACK IN CONTROL: The "Back In Control©" program by Gregory Bodenhamer has unique advantages over many of the Reward/Punishment models of intervention with ADHD. It is a rule based system, which does not depend upon the desire of the child to comply. It is, in fact, a parent training system. It asks parents to:
- Define a few clear, precise rules (you get exactly what you ask for, no more and no less).
- Make the rules clear enough that a sitter could enforce them just as you would.
- Enforce the rules absolutely.
- Never reward or punish a rule... ENFORCE it.
- Never argue with a child about a rule... use "unhooking" words like "Nevertheless" or "Be that as it may".
Some Problems with Bodenhamer's System: Most parents are willing to give up rewarding. Few really want to give up punishing. Most parents have difficulty not yelling at a child when mad at them. This is only useful if you feel the child has a hearing problem. In fact, it tends to give the child the upper hand and to let the child divert you from the original rule. It is to the child's advantage to discuss with you "how unfair you are" rather than to clean up the room as originally directed.
DIETARY RECOMMENDATIONS
INCLUDE IN THE DIET
Include in the diet all fruits and vegetables (except those containing salicylates, listed below), plus breads, cereals, and crackers that contain only rice and oats.
Include cold-water fish such as tuna, salmon, and herring in your diet. These are all good sources of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), an essential fatty acid that is thought to be vital for brain development and is often deficient in those with ADD/ADHD.
Follow a high-protein diet, similar to the one prescribed for hypoglycemia. Proteins are needed to supply the body with amino acids. Some researchers are studying the similarities between hypoglycemia and ADD/ADHD. It is possible that a large number of ADD/ADHD diagnoses are in actuality hypoglycemia in disguise. The symptoms are so similar it is difficult to separate them. A low-carbohydrate, high-protein diet, particularly at breakfast, should assist in reducing symptoms if it is truly hypoglycemia.
Be sure that your child is getting his or her carbohydrates from foods that contain complex carbohydrates and cut down on simple carbohydrates. Complex carbohydrates can be found in fresh vegetables, fresh fruits, beans, and natural whole grains. They provide dietary fiber and have only a third of the calories found in fats and simple carbohydrates. Simple carbohydrates, such as glucose, fructose, and galactose, are found in all forms of sugars, some juices, and in processed and refined grains (not whole grains).
ELIMINATE FROM THE DIET
Limit dairy products if you notice behavioral changes after they are consumed. Dairy foods have been known to cause behavioral problems in some ADD/ADHD sufferers.
Remove from the diet all forms of refined sugar (simple carbohydrates) and any products that contain it. Also eliminate all junk food and all foods that contain artificial colors, flavorings, or preservatives; processed and manufactured foods; and foods that contain salicylates. Certain foods naturally contain salicylates. These include almonds, apples, apricots, cherries, currants, all berries, peaches, plums, prunes, tomatoes, cucumbers, and oranges.
Do not consume any of the following: apple cider vinegar, bacon, butter, candy, catsup, chocolate, colored cheeses, chili sauce, corn, ham, hot dogs, luncheon meat, margarine, meat loaf, milk, mustard, pork, salami, salt, soft drinks, soy sauce, sausage, tea, and wheat. Do not use antacid tablets, cough drops, throat lozenges, or commercial toothpaste. Use a natural toothpaste from a health food store instead.
Avoid carbonated beverages, which contain large amounts of phosphates. Phosphate additives may be responsible for hyperkinesis (exaggerated muscle activity). High levels of phosphates and very low calcium and magnesium levels (which can be revealed through a hair analysis) can indicate a potential for hyperactivity and seizures. Meat and fat also are high in phosphates.
High levels of phosphorus and very low calcium and magnesium levels (which can be revealed through a hair analysis) can indicate a potential for hyperactivity and seizures. Meat and fat are also vary high in phosphorus.
Use an elimination diet to identify foods that may be causing aggravating symptoms. See Allergies for more information.
OTHER RECOMMENDATIONS
Do not use antacid tablets, cough drops, perfume, throat lozenges, or commercial toothpaste. Use a natural toothpaste from a health food store or make your own using natural products.
Limit exposure to television, video and electronic games, and loud music. Instead, encourage outdoor physical activities or other activities to expand creativity.
Consider trying cognitive-behavioral therapy. This can often alleviate or eliminate many of the behavior problems caused by ADD/ADHD.
HERBS
If you are giving herbs to a child, be sure to adjust the dosage for age as recommended by the manufacturer.
Bacopin is an extract of the Ayurvedic herb Bacopa (Bacopa Monniera). It is useful as a good memory enhancer.
Ginkgo Biloba is helpful for brain function and concentration.
Herbal Remedies: Ginkgo Leaf (Ginkgo Biloba) Powder, 4 oz. Bulk
Herbal Remedies: Ginkgold Ginkgo Biloba Extract, Nature's Way, Vegetarian, Standardized, 60 mg, 150 Tabs
Herbal Remedies: Ginkgo Biloba Extract, Standardized, Nature's Way, 60 mg, 120 VCaps
Herbal Remedies: Ginkgo Biloba Herbal Tea, 20 Tea Bags
Ginseng or Mullein Oil may be helpful for memory.
Herbal Remedies: Ginseng Information & Products
Herbal Remedies: Mullein Oil, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz.
Valerian root extract has been used for this disorder with dramatic results and no side effects. Mix the extract in juice (as directed on the product label according to age) and drink the mixture two to three times daily.
Herbal Remedies: Valerian Root Extract, Standardized, 510 mg, 90 Caps
Herbal Remedies: Valerian Root Glycerite, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz.
Mountain Rose Herbs: Valerian Extract, Certified Organic, 1 oz & 4 oz. Size Choice
Other herbs that may be beneficial for hyperactivity include Catnip, Chamomile, Hops, Lobelia, Passion Flower, Skullcap, Thyme, and Wood Betony. Caution: Do not use chamomile or lobelia on an ongoing basis. Avoid chamomile completely if you are allergic to ragweed.
Herbal medicines and natural substances that some naturopaths use for treating ADHD include Ginkgo Biloba and Lemon Balm because of their reputed beneficial effects upon the brain. Kava and St. John's Wort, which can be harmful if taken incorrectly, are also sometimes used to try and help regulate mood and behavior problems associated with ADHD. Do not use these except under the direction of a health care provider.
NUTRITIONAL SUPPLEMENTS
Iron supplements: You should not use iron supplements or give them to your child without first discussing it with your health care provider. Although some children with ADHD have low levels of iron in their blood, too much iron can be poisonous and may lead to death.
Vitamins: A daily multivitamin may help anyone meet his or her nutritional requirements and prevent any deficiencies, especially children who are picky eaters with reduced appetite from psychostimulant medication.
Unless otherwise specified, the dosages recommended here are for adults. For a child between the ages of 12 and 17 years, reduce the dose to 3/4 the recommended amount. For a child between the ages of 6 and 12, use 1/2 the recommended dose, and for a child under the age of 6, use 1/4 the recommended amount.
NUTRIENTS Supplement Suggested Dosage Comments Essential Calcium As directed on label, at bedtime. Has a calming effect.
Calcium Ionic Mineral Supplement, Fully Absorbable, 700 +/- ppm, 16 fl. oz.,
Liquid Calcium W/ConcenTrace, Orange Vanilla, Trace Minerals, 1000 mg, 32 fl. oz.,
Cal-Mag Pre-Chelated Calcium & Magnesium, Vital Earth, 240 GelcapsMagnesium As directed on label, at bedtime. Has a calming effect. Helps uptake of calcium.
Magnesium Ionic Mineral Supplement, Fully Absorbable, 350 +/- ppm, 16 fl. oz.,
Just An Ounce Calcium & Magnesium Liquid, Almond Flavor, 16 fl. oz.,
Calcium & Magnesium Mineral Complex, 100% Natural, Nature's Way, 500 mg / 250 mg, 250 CapsEfalex Focus - ADD As directed on label. Provides essential fatty acids and helps to maintain eye and brain function. Or
Kyolic EPAAs directed on label. Restores proper fatty acid balance. Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA) 750 mg daily. Calms the body much in the same way as some tranquilizers, without side effects or danger of addiction. See Amino Acids for more information.
GABA (Gamma Aminobutyric Acid) Supplement, NOW Foods, 500 mg, Plus B-6, 2 mg, 100 Caps,
GABA Powder (Gamma Aminobutyric Acid), NOW Foods, 100% Pure, Vegetarian, 500 mg, 6 oz.Multi-Vitamin & Multi-Mineral Complex As directed on label. All nutrients are needed for equilibrium within the body. Use a liquid form / gelcaps, if available, for best absorption.
Super Multi-Vitamin & Multi-Mineral, Pure Vital Earth, 32 fl. oz. (98% Bio-Available for Absorption), Damage Control Master Formula, High Potency, Multi-Vitamin & Mineral, 60 Packets (30 Day Supply),
Liquid Multi-Vitamin & Mineral, Strawberry-Raspberry Flavor, Trace Minerals, 32 fl. oz.,
Alive! Whole Food Energizer, Liquid Multi-Vitamin, Citrus Flavor, Nature's Way, 30 oz.Pycnogenol
Or
Grape Seed ExtractAs directed on label.
As directed on label.Powerful antioxidants offering cellular protection for the body and brain.
Pycnogenol W/ Vitamin E, 100% Natural, Nature's Way, 50 mg, 30 Tabs,
Grape Seed (Grapeseed) (Vitus vinifera), 100% Pure, NOW Foods, 16 fl. oz.Quercetin As directed on label. Prevents allergies from aggravating symptoms.
Quercetin, NOW Foods, 500 mg, 100 VCaps,
Quercetin With Bromelain, Hypoallergenic, Bioflavonoid, NOW Foods, 800 mg, 120 VCapsS-Adenosylmethionine (SAM-e) As directed on label. Aids in relieving stress and depression. Caution: Do not use if you have manic-depressive disorder or take prescription antidepressants. Do not give to a child under 12 years.
SAM-e, Enteric Coated, NOW Foods, 100 mg, 30 Tabs,
SAM-e With B Vitamin Cofactors, Vegetarian, Enteric Coated, NOW Foods, 200 mg, 60 TabsVitamin B Complex 50 mg of each B vitamin daily, with meals 3 times daily (amounts of individual vitamins in a complex will vary). B vitamins are needed for correct brain function and digestion. Also enhance adrenal gland function.
Ultimate B (Vitamin B Complex), Nature's Secret, 60 Tabs,
Vitamin B-100 Complex, w/ Coenzyme B-2, Nature's Way, 631 mg, 100 CapsPlus Extra
Vitamin B-3 (Niacin)100 mg daily. Do not exceed a total of 300 mg daily from all supplements. B vitamins improve circulation, build up red blood cells and aid liver function. Caution: Do not take niacin if you have a liver disorder, gout, or high blood pressure.
Niacin Supplement (Vitamin B-3), 100% Natural, Nature's Way, 100 mg, 100 CapsAnd
Vitamin B-5 (Pantothenic Acid)100 mg daily. The anti-stress vitamin.
Pantothenic Acid, 100% Natural Vitamin B-5, Nature's Way, 250 mg, 100 CapsAnd
Vitamin B-6 (Pyridoxine)50 mg daily. Important for proper brain function. Extremely important for formation of red blood cells and neurotransmitters.
Vitamin B-6 / Pyridoxine, Nature's Way, 100 mg, 100 CapsHelpful Acetylcholine As directed on label. Can improve memory and ability to pay attention. Phosphatidylcholine, a primary component of lecithin, is converted in the brain into the neurotransmitter acetylcholine.
Phosphatidylcholine, Derived From Soy, Allergy Research Group / Nutricology, 100 SoftgelsAttend
(Vaxa International)As directed on label. A homeopathic nutritional combination designed to address the specific dietary and neurochemical deficiencies thought to occur in people with ADD/ADHD. Can be used by both children and adults. Bio-Strath As directed on label. Contains yeast, herbs, and all the B vitamins that have a calming effect. Dimethylaminoethanol (DMAE) As directed on label. Aids in concentration by improving nerve impulse transmission in the brain. May also produce antidepressant effects. Caution: This supplement should be used by adults only. Do not give it to a child.
DMAE Supplement (Dimethylaminoethanol), Vegetarian, NOW Foods, 250 mg, 100 VCaps,
BrainAid (With Choline, DMAE, & Phosphatidylcholine), Allergy Research Group / Nutricology, 60 TabsEFA Attention Formula As directed on label. Contains essential fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, and Ayurvedic herbs that support normal brain, nerve, and eye function. Suitable for both children and adults. Brewer's Yeast Start with 1/4 teaspoon daily and slowly increase to the dose recommended on the label. A natural source of B vitamins.
Brewer's Yeast, Debittered, NOW Foods, 1 lb.,
Brewer's Yeast, NOW Foods, 650 mg, 200 TabsL-Cysteine Take as directed on label, on an empty stomach. Take with water or juice. Do not take with milk. Take with 50 mg vitamin B-6 and 100 mg of vitamin C for better absorption. Take this amino acid if a hair analysis reveals high levels of metals. See Amino Acids for more information.
L-Cysteine Structural Support With Vitamin B-6 & C, Vegetarian, NOW Foods, 500 mg, 100 Tabs,
NAC (N-Acetyl-Cysteine), NOW Foods, Selenium, Molybdenum, 600 mg, 100 CapsPedia-Calm
(Olympian)As directed on label. A combination formula for hyperactive children that includes phoshatidyl serine, phosphatidyl choline, cephalin, phosphoinositides, DMAE, and GABA. It can be taken in capsule form or sprinkled on food. Phosphatidyl Serine Take as directed on label. May aid in balancing neurotransmitters in the brain. Also may alleviate depression.
Phosphatidyl Serine, Nature's Way, 500 mg, 30 Softgels,
Phosphatidyl Serine Supplement (PS), Nature's Way, 500 mg, 60 Softgels,
Phosphatidyl Serine (PS), NOW Foods, 100 mg, 60 VCapsTaurine Plus
(American Biologics)As directed on label. The most important antioxidant and immune regulator; necessary for white blood cell activation and neurological function.
Taurine, Free Form, NOW Foods, 500 mg, 100 Caps,
Taurine, Free Form, NOW Foods, 500 mg, 100 Caps,
Taurine, Double Strength, Free Form Amino Acid, NOW Foods, 1000 mg, 100 Caps,Vitamin C With Bioflavonoids Adults & Children Over 12: 1,000 mg 3 times daily.
Children Under 12: 500 mg 3 times daily.An anti-stress vitamin.
Vitamin C Liquid w/ Rose Hips & Bioflavonoids, Kosher, Natural Citrus Flavor, Dynamic Health, 1000 mg, 16 fl. oz.,
Ester C With Bioflavonoids, Nature's Way, 1000 mg, 90 Tabs,
Vitamin C 1000 With Bioflavonoids, Nature's Way, 100% Natural, 1000 mg, 250 VCaps,
The Right C, Nature's Way, 1000 mg, 120 TabsZinc As directed on label. Many ADHD children are zinc-deficient. Take in addition to the multi-vitamin and mineral complex. Do not exceed a total of 100 mg daily (or, for children, the appropriate fraction of 100 mg) from all supplements.
Zinc Ionic Mineral Supplement, Fully Absorbable, 100 +/- ppm, 16 fl. oz.,
Colloidal Silver & Zinc Lozenges, Silva Solution, 90 Lozenges,
Zinc Lozenges W/ Echinacea & Vitamin C, Nature's Way, 23 mg, 60 Lozenges,
Zinc (Chelated), 100% Natural, Nature's Way, 30 mg, 100 Caps
ADD/ADHD SUPPLEMENTS & PRODUCTS
Attention Deficit Disorder, ADD, ADHD Supplements, Information and Products for ADD/ADHD symptoms which cause problems at home, at school, on the job and in social situations.
Aconite Homeopathic Clikpak, 30C, 84 Pellets
Homeopathic Nelson's Aconite in the new clikpak is easy to carry and dispense for high fever, anxiety and restlessness and therefore much better suited to a busy lifestyle.ADD & ADHD Diet, A Comprehensive Look at Contributing Factors & Natural Treatments for Symptoms of Attention Deficit Disorder and Hyperactivity, By Rachel Bell & Dr. Howard Peiper
This book offers the latest information on what to eat, what to avoid and the supplements that may help if you have ADD or ADHD. It also covers non-dietary approaches, problems with chemicals and more.ADD/ADHD Formula Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz.
Helps with common symptoms of ADD / ADHD such as short attention span, inability to finish tasks and hyperactivity.ADHD Alternatives - A Natural Approach To Treating Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, By Aviva Jill Romm, Herbalist AHG & Tracy Romm, Ed.D
In this thoughtful ADHD book, Aviva and Tracy Romm guide parents and educators in taking a more holistic, natural, and effective approach to problems of attention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity.Alive! Whole Food Energizer Multi-Vitamin & Mineral With Naturally Occurring Iron (No Iron Added), Nature's Way, 180 Tabs
No other supplement contains more life-giving nutrients than Nature's Way Alive. This supplements is better absorbed into your blood stream because its tablets disintegrate up to 5X faster than other leading brands.Barlean's Organic Oil, Fresh Catch Fish Oil, EPA-DHA Concentrate, 60 Softgels
Fresh Catch® Barlean's Organic Oil Super High Potency EPA - DHA is a pure and pristine source of fish oil providing highly concentrated EPA Omega-3 to support cardiovascular, joint, immune and colon health for your vibrant health and energy.Bright Brain Soft Chew, Irwin Naturals, 30 Fruity Soft Chews
Bright Brain contains Omega-3 oil, an Essential Fatty Acid that not only improves learning ability, focus and concentration, it also impacts the very development and future of your child’s growing brain.Calcium Ionic Mineral Supplement, Fully Absorbable, 700 +/- ppm, 16 fl. oz.
WaterOz Ionic Calcium is a pure liquid Calcium supplement. Calcium is one of the most essential of the major biochemical elements needed in human nutrition. It is needed in every organ of the body, including the brain. Calcium is called the "knitter" because it promotes healing or knitting everywhere in the body. It is valuable for tone, power, strength, longevity, vitality, and endurance, healing of wounds, counter-acting acids, and helping regulate metabolism.Chromium Ionic Mineral Supplement, Fully Absorbable, 50 +/- ppm, 16 fl. oz.
WaterOz Ionic Chromium is a pure liquid chromium supplement. Chromium helps the body regulate metabolism, regulate insulin and blood sugar levels, helps the body lose weight by stimulating enzymes that metabolize glucose, burns fat. Chromium deficiencies may contribute to Infertility and decreased sperm count.Daytime Stress Formula, Stress Supplement, TheraVeda Usha, 60 VCaps
TheraVedas Usha Daytime Stress Supplement was developed to assist your mind in maintaining concentration and focus, while pushing away distractions due to a stressful environment.DHA & Omega-3 From Fish Oil, NOW Foods, 250 mg With 100 mg EPA, 120 Softgels
Numerous published studies have provided strong evidence that the Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil may reduce the risk of coronary artery disease (CAD) and sudden death from cardiac causes.DMAE Supplement, Dimethylaminoethanol, Vegetarian, NOW Foods, 250 mg, 100 VCaps
Taken as a maintenance supplement, DMAE Supplement works synergistically with other smart nutrients like Ginkgo Biloba, GABA, Phosphatidyl Serine and L-Tyrosine, or can be taken alone.DMG Supplement N,N Dimethyl Glycine, NOW Foods, 125 mg, 100 Caps
NOW Foods' DMG Supplement is a methylated amino acid found in all cells. DMG is an antioxidant and methyl donor that has a number of beneficial effects. It has shown to have potential in increasing immune response to the flu and salmonella.EFA Blend Essential Fatty Acids Supplement, Attention Focus for Children, Nature's Way, 445 mg, 120 Softgels
EFA, Essential Fatty Acid Supplement, provides the fluid membrane environment needed for proper transmission of brain and nerve signals.EPA-DHA Concentrate, Organic Fresh Catch Fish Oil, Barleans, 60 Softgels
Fresh Catch Barlean's Organic Oil Super High Potency EPA - DHA is a pure and pristine source of fish oil providing highly concentrated EPA Omega-3 to support cardiovascular, joint, immune and colon health for your vibrant health and energy.GABA, Pharmaceutical Grade Gamma Aminobutyric Acid, 250 mg, 90 Tabs
Gamma-Aminobutyric acid (GABA) is an amino acid that acts as a Neurotransmitter in the central nervous system. Together with niacinamide and Inositol, it prevents anxiety and stress related messages from reaching the motor centers of the brain by occupying the receptor sites.GABA Powder (Gamma Aminobutyric Acid), NOW Foods, 100% Pure, Vegetarian, 500 mg, 6 oz.
GABA is a non-essential amino acid found mainly in the human brain and eyes and it is considered an inhibitory neurotransmitter, which means it regulates brain and nerve cell activity by inhibiting the number of neurons firing in the brain - GABA is referred to as the brain's natural calming agent.Get Better Bear Homeopathic Calm For Infants & Toddlers, Improvita, 2 fl. oz.
Get Better Bear Homeopathic Calm for Infants and Toddlers has a combination of six single remedies. It is an over-the-counter day time sedative that relieves symptoms of restlessness, hyperactivity, and attention deficit disorder (ADD/ADHD) and promotes concentration.Irwin Naturals Advanced Ginkgo Smart, 90 Gel Caps
Irwin Naturals Advanced Ginkgo Smart combines botanical extracts and phytonutrients to support memory, mental clarity, concentration, alertness & focus.Is Your Child's Brain Starving? Food Not Drugs For Life & Learning
While all of the information in the book is based upon relevant science, technical detail has been kept to a minimum to make it easy to read and very practical.Kid's Attention Plus Formula, 2 fl. oz.
Helps with common symptoms of ADD / ADHD such as short attention span, inability to finish tasks and hyperactivity.Mental Clarity, Promotes Memory & Intelligence, Banyan Botanicals, 90 Tabs
The herbs in Mental Clarity have traditionally been used to enhance all aspects of mental performance, including intelligence, concentration, awareness, perception and learning capacity. This effective blend sharpens the mind and is useful for those prone to forgetfulness, confusion or indecisiveness. Mental Clarity is an ideal supplement for anyone with a mentally demanding workload, students, and those experiencing loss of memory.Multi-Vitamin & Multi-Mineral, Baby & Children's Liquid, Childlife, 8 fl. oz.
Children's liquid Multi-Vitamin & Multi-Mineral formula provides the optimal dosage of all the essential vitamins and minerals with trace elements for infants and children of all ages and it tastes great!Natural Approach To Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD), By Ronald Hoffman, M.D.
"Good Health Guide" Ranging from food or chemical sensitivities and hypoglycemia to specific nutritional deficiencies, the underlying causes of ADD are complex, yet responsive to a wide variety of natural therapies.Neuromins DHA Supplement (Docosahexaenoic Acid), Nature's Way, 100 mg, 60 Softgels
Neuromins brand high quality DHA Supplement is sourced from microalgae and fortified with Vitamin C and E.Omega 3-6-9 Oil, Mega EFA Blend, Lime Flavored, Nature's Way, 1350 mg, 90 Softgels
Omega 3-6-9 Oil Mega EFA Blend is the most complete daily source of Omega 3-6-9 fatty acids for healthy skin, joints and cardiovascular function.Organic Flax Protein / Fiber / Lignan, Cold Milled Powder, Plus Omega-3, Certified, Nature's Way, 16 oz.
Nature's Way EFAGold is the highest quality flax seed protein powder, and one of nature's richest sources of protein, fiber & essential fatty acids.Pycnogenol With Vitamin E, 100% Natural, Nature's Way, 50 mg, 30 Tabs
Pycnogenol is an extract made from the bark of the European coastal pine. Pycnogenol is a concentrated source of proanthocyanidins, organic acids and other biologically active components.12 Effective Ways To Help Your ADD or ADHD Child: Drug-Free Alternatives For Attention Deficit Disorder, By Laura J. Stevens, M.S.A.
Steven's 12 ground breaking recommendations are completely drug-free and backed by scientific studies. By improving diet, eliminating allergens and adding vitamin and mineral supplements, parents can effectively diminish symptoms of hyperactivity.
Herbal Remedies: Attention Deficit Disorder / ADD / ADHD Supplements, Information & Products
Herbal Remedies: Attention Deficit Disorder / ADD / ADHD Information
CONSIDERATIONS
When you are dealing with this disorder, it is best to think of the diet as feeding the brain rather than the stomach. Many researchers believe that if the contributors are removed from the diets of the patients and the right nutritional supplements are added, numerous symptoms often disappear, and medications used to treat ADD/ADHD (some of which cause serious side effects) can often be eliminated.
A hair analysis to rule out heavy metal intoxication is important. Lead and copper have both been linked to behavioral problems. See Hair Analysis for more information.
Family- or allergy-related problems can elicit ADD/ADHD-related behaviors. It is important to explore the possibility with your specialist.
A strong link has been established between learning disabilities and juvenile crime.
The prescription medication methylphenidate (Ritalin) has become the most commonly prescribed medication to ease hyperactivity. Researchers are discovering, however, that this medication has many potentially serious, long-term side effects including decreased appetite, weight loss, insomnia, slowed growth, increased heart rate, increased blood pressure, a period of increased irritability and intolerance at the onset of use, and the possibility of developing Parkinson's disease. Adverse reports have been released in recent years warning parents of the possible side effects of Ritalin - with some reports even comparing it to cocaine.
other prescription medications often prescribed include dextroamphetamine (Dexadrine, a stimulant that produces calming effects equivalent to Ritalin), pemoline (Cylert, a stimulant that has been restricted by the FDA to use as a secondary medication because it can cause liver failure), methamphetamine (Desoxyn), amphetamine-dextroamphetamine combination (Adderall), and tricyclic antidepressants (if depression is suspected). For periods of extreme anger and aggression, a tranquilizer called thiordazine (Mellaril) may be prescribed, but it should be used only as a last resort. Various side effects, some of them serious, have been reported with all of these medications.
Due to the many potentially harmful side effects of the medications available for ADD/ADHD sufferers, a growing number of parents and health professionals are turning to all or a combination of the following as a way to reduce and even possibly eliminate the symptoms of ADD/ADHD:
- Alteration of diet.
- Vitamin & mineral supplementation.
- Herbal remedies.
- Counseling.
- The love & support of family, teachers, and friends.
Many believe that medicating the problem is merely masking the symptoms without getting to the root of the problem.
Researchers who performed 5-hour oral glucose tolerance tests on 261 hyperactive children found that 74 percent displayed abnormal glucose tolerance curves, suggesting a connection between hyperactive behavior and the consumption of sugar.
Some studies have found that many children with ADD/ADHD have high levels of toxic by-products of yeast and other harmful bacteria in their urine. The use of probiotics (supplements that add beneficial bacteria to the body, such as acidophilus) can help to alleviate this problem.
Studies indicate that administration of gamma-amino-butyric acid (GABA) decreases hyperactivity, as well as tendencies toward violence, epilepsy, mental retardation, and learning disabilities.
More and more evidence is showing that those with ADD/ADHD are at greater risk for depression, alcoholism, restlessness, difficulties with careers and relationships, and antisocial behavior as adults.
Parents of children with ADD/ADHD often have a very difficult time dealing with the behavioral problems of their children. These parents deserve a lot of credit. It is important to remember, though, that the children deserve a lot of credit, too. When things seem as though they are getting out of control, it can be helpful to remember that a child with ADD or ADHD is dealing with a physiological disability. Although they desire to please and want to be good, their minds can go in and out of overload without their control. Because of this, they often feel confused and ashamed, and they can eventually develop low self-esteem. When problems arise, it is important to explain to them what they did wrong, and why it was wrong, in a calm, one-on-one fashion whenever possible. These children need a great deal of love, support, and encouragement from everyone around them - but most of all, from their parents.
You can ask your health care provider to help you find a professional who specializes in treating people with attention deficit disorders, or seek a referral through one of the following groups:
Attention Deficit Disorder Association (ADDA)
P.O. Box 543
Pottstown, PA 19464
Phone: (484) 945-2101
Fax: (610) 970-7520
Website: http://www.add.org/
Children With Attention-Deficit Disorders (CHADD)
8181 Professional Place, Suite 150
Landover, MD 20785
National Resource Center on AD/HD (800) 233-4050
Business (301) 306-7070
FAX (301) 306-7090
Website: http://www.chadd.org/
Learning Disabilities Association of America (LDA)
4156 Library Road
Pittsburgh, PA 15234-1349
Phone: (412) 341-1515
Fax: (412) 344-0224
Website: http://www.ldanatl.org/
Email: info@ldaamerica.org
RITALIN LINKS
Druglord Ciba-Geigy Pushes Ritalin on Kids
Ritalin Fraud (includes side effects of Ritalin)
FDA Ritalin Studies
PBS Transcript: Ritalin and CHADD, ADD
PBS- Frontline: United Nation's Warnings on Ritalin
PBS - Frontline: Medicating Kids: The business of ADHD
DEA Report on Ritalin
What Doctors Don't Tell You 2001-2
Methylphenidate (Ritalin)
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Prescription for Nutritional Healing: The A-To-Z Guide To Supplements
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Prescription for Nutritional Healing: The A-To-Z Guide To Supplements
-- by Phyllis A. Balch, James F. Balch - 4th Edition
Prescription for Herbal Healing: The A-To-Z Reference To Common Disorders
-- by Phyllis A. Balch
The Complete Guide to Natural Healing
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