ADD or ADHD

What is ADD or ADHD?

Attention deficit disorder (ADD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are very common childhood behavioral and developmental disorders. Onset usually occurs by the age of three and can last through adulthood. Children with ADD/ADHD usually have trouble paying attention, staying focused, and controlling their behavior.

What are the Symptoms of Attention Deficit Disorder?

A child with ADD/ADHD might:

• Daydream a lot
• Forget or lose things a lot
• Squirm or fidget
• Talk too much
• Make careless mistakes or take unnecessary risks
• Have a hard time resisting temptation
• Have trouble taking turns
• Have difficulty getting along with others

What are Possible Causes and Triggers of ADD/ADHD?

• Food additives
• Nutrient deficiencies
• Food sensitivities / food allergies
• Sucrose consumption
• Ear infections
• Heavy metal toxicity

Improved Diet for ADHD Children

If your child suffers from frequent mood swings, ear infections, eczema, allergies, attention deficit disorder, or other developmental problems, then we recommend examining your child’s diet and digestive health. Often children with ADD/ADHD have food sensitivities and intestinal permeability, which leads to an imbalance in gut flora and can increase the incidence of candida infections. Testing your child for food allergies or food sensitivities is highly recommended. Common culprits include soy, corn, wheat/gluten, dairy, nuts, peanuts, citrus, dyes, and preservatives. Eliminating these foods from your child’s diet can improve ADD/ADHD symptoms. 

Is a Gluten-free Diet a Natural Cure for ADHD?

Gluten is a protein present in wheat, barley and rye. Some people have difficulty digesting gluten (gluten sensitivity) and others with a true allergy to gluten (celiac disease).  A 2006 study published in the Journal of Attention Disorders confirmed the link between ADHD and celiac disease.  Researchers studied 132 participants affected by celiac disease and tested for ADHD symptoms before and after a gluten-free diet.  The results indicated that a gluten-free diet may improve attention deficit disorder symptoms significantly within a short period of time. We recommend trying a gluten elimination diet or testing for celiac disease if your child has ADD/ADHD symptoms.

Avoid Caffeine and Energy Drinks

A new study published by Journal of Pediatrics warns against the amount of caffeine and other stimulants being consumed by teens. Researchers looked at brands like Red Bull, Spike Shooter and Redline, and found cases of seizures, delusions, heart problems, and kidney or liver damage. These drinks can be particularly harmful to children and teens that have cardiovascular or diabetic conditions, as well as have a negative affect on children and adolescents with ADHD.

Supplement Recommendations for ADD/ADHD

Pathway KID’S CHEWABLE MULTI

Because nutrient deficiencies can affect mental performance, correcting them can support learning and behavior.  A study published in the medical journal The Lancet showed that supplementing with a multivitamin increased nonverbal intelligence in children. Pathway KID’S CHEWABLE MULTI provides important vitamins and minerals in a great tasting chewable tablet and includes a probiotic blend for added immune and digestive support. Pathway KID’S CHEWABLE MULTI contains no artificial flavorings or colorings.

Nordic Naturals DHA Junior

DHA (Docosahexaenoic acid) is a polyunsaturated omega-3 essential fatty acid found throughout the body. It is a major structural fat in the brain and retina accounting for up to 97% of the omega-3 fats in the brain and up to 93% of the omega-3 fats in the retina. It is also a key component of the heart and an important building block for nerve tissue. Nordic Naturals DHA Junior is an excellent all-natural source of DHA.

Most children are deficient in omega-3 fatty acids. Results of a new study in the journal Nutrition show that children with ADHD have increased learning and improved behavior when given DHA daily. According to the study, the children taking DHA showed improvement in spelling and the ability to divide attention, and had lower parent ratings of hyperactivity and restlessness.

Pathway KID’S ATTENTION PLUS

Pathway KID’S ATTENTION PLUS is a unique liquid herbal formula designed especially for children who struggle with focus and concentration issues. It contains herbs that can help with handling stress, nervous exhaustion, fatigue, and can promote a sense of relaxation. 

Pathway KID’S ACIDOPHILUS

An imbalance in healthy gut flora is commonly seen in children with ADD/ADHD. Therefore, a probiotic supplement is recommended for children with ADD/ADHD. Pathway KIDS’S ACIDOPHILUS is a high potency, multiple species, children's specific probiotic provides the most beneficial bacteria in the amounts that help to establish an excellent digestive environment. Each capsule is microencapsulated to protect the good bacteria against the destruction normally caused by the harsh acidic environment of the stomach.

Holistic Treatment for ADD/ADHD

At Village Green Apothecary, our nutritionists and doctors work with patients to create optimal health by using natural remedies, such as vitamins, minerals, herbs, and homeopathic treatments. They also recommend tailored diet plans, exercise routines, lifestyle tips, and specialized testing to address the root cause(s) of ADD/ADHD symptoms. 

Schedule a consultation with one of Village Green’s naturopathic doctors or certified nutritionists for a personal assessment of your child’s unique situation. During your appointment (either by phone or in-person), our professionals will:

• Review your child’s ADD/ADHD symptoms and health history
• Examine your child’s diet and lifestyle
• Recommend specialized testing
• Assess possible drug-nutrient interactions or depletions
• Answer any questions you may have
• Evaluate treatment options
• Create a customized plan that includes natural solutions, diet and lifestyle recommendations, and custom compounding.

  Contact a Village Green nutritionist by calling 800-869-9159.

  Learn more about our nutrition counseling and wellness services.