 A
Natural Approach - To Attention Deficit Hyperactivity
Disorder (ADHD)
By Tamara Cottle of R.A.W. Solutions 4 Life
Today, parents across Canada are being called to meet with teachers about
their child. They are confronted with the news that he or she may have a
behavioural problem known as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
(ADHD), a condition characterized by hyperactivity, forgetfulness,
distractibility, impulsivity and inattention. At this meeting the teacher
might suggest seeing a doctor to confirm these suspicions and to prescribe
medications that will allow him or her to focus better in class.
There is no definitive diagnosis for ADHD other than meeting a series of
vague criteria. There must be signs that the behaviour is impairing social,
work or school functioning, and it must be chronic in nature. Any age can be
affected, but usually symptoms present themselves before age 7. ADHD is
primarily a neurological disorder affecting the brain. No one has been able
to determine a single cause, but experts agree that a number of different
factors may contribute to its development. Genetics, toxicity, heavy metals,
environment, deficiencies and food allergies have all been suspected of
contributing to the disorder. Moreover, with the advent of video games,
hours of quick flashing television programming and decreased physical
activity, others are beginning to wonder if ADHD could be a symptom of a
greater societal ill.
Effective treatment is critical in ADHD according to Alan Logan,
Naturopathic Doctor and author of the Brain Diet. According to Logan, long
term consequences can result in higher risks of antisocial behaviours,
criminal records, alcohol abuse, reading difficulties and low educational
levels. Low self - esteem is also a serious consideration when looking at
short term consequences in children.
There are medications that can be taken to control the symptoms of ADHD.
Methylphenidates such as Ritalin are the most commonly prescribed
medications for those suffering with ADHD. These drugs are central nervous
system stimulants which increase levels of dopamine, a neurotransmitter
required, among other things, for learning, memory and focussed attention.
Unfortunately, these types of medications are not without side-effects. Loss
of appetite, seizures, heart palpitations, unusual behaviour, tics, high
blood pressure and insomnia have been reported.
For individuals who are hesitant about going the pharmaceutical route, there
are natural alternatives. In fact, many holistic practitioners believe that
ADHD can be managed, if not eliminated, with lifestyle and dietary changes.
Brain cells are extremely vulnerable. They are unlike other cells in the
body that reproduce themselves on a regular basis. Brain cells last an
entire lifetime and are designed to function even in stressful conditions.
That being said, long-term abuse can take a toll. Junk food is a major
offender in creating an unhealthy environment for brain cells. In his book,
Is Your Child’s Brain Starving?, Dr. Michael Lyon describes junk food as
foods that contain lots of calories but few minerals, vitamins, fatty acids,
fibre or naturally occurring plant chemicals. These foods often contain
chemical preservatives, artificial flavours, hydrogenated fats and lots of
sugar. Avoiding junk food is an essential step towards brain health and
reducing ADHD symptoms.
Organic foods should also be included in the diet to replace genetically
modified foods (GMOs). GMOs may contain proteins that the body does not
recognize. This may result in adverse immune reactions and some studies show
that brain degeneration can occur. Furthermore, genetically modified crops
are sprayed with brain-toxic pesticides and/or herbicides.
Food allergies, intolerances and hypersensitivities may also contribute to
the development of ADHD. These may be discovered via an elimination diet
where certain foods are restricted temporarily from the diet, then
reintroduced while watching for adverse physiological or behavioural
reactions. If there is a reaction to a particular food, it is eliminated
from the diet until the intestinal tract has time to heal itself.
Usually people with ADHD have a permeable gut wall, increasing
susceptibility to food intolerances and neurological effects. Supplemental
enzymes and raw foods are beneficial in helping the body to heal the
gastrointestinal tract. Also, an adequate amount of good bacteria in the GI
tract is not only needed to help protect the sensitive tissue of the gut
wall, but is also essential for nervous system function.
Eating a diet rich in antioxidants found in colourful fruit and vegetables
can help protect brain cells. Blue green algae contains many antioxidants,
trace minerals and a substance called alginic acid which is helpful in
chelating heavy metals from the body. Also, an increased amount of protein
is required for optimal brain functioning. Good sources include hemp,
legumes, oily fish and lean meat. Complex carbohydrates such as whole grains
are a good source of fibre and brain fuel, while omega 3 essential fatty
acids found in fish, flax or hemp oil have been shown in numerous studies to
help with ADHD. Supplementing the diet with a multivitamin that contains
calcium, magnesium, zinc and the B complex family may also be required.
There are a number of lifestyle recommendations that are useful for people
with ADHD. Reducing the amount of time spent in front of the television or
computer screen is important, as is getting adequate sleep at night. Being
involved in activities that require concentration might elevate self-esteem
and encourage a sense of accomplish that can spread into other areas of
life. Also, an active lifestyle can help focus energy and makes for a better
functioning body. In many cases, counselling or therapy may be necessary.
Tamara Cottle is a Holistic Nutritionist & owner/operator of R.A.W.
Solutions 4 Life, Nutrition Counseling & Fitness. Contact Tamara at
403.389.3111 for more information.
tamaracottle@hotmail.com |
