Although foods do not cause ADHD, there are certain foods that trigger the condition. Some types of foods, due to their content, can worsen the symptoms of ADHD or mimic the behavior in individual or child.
Research has found that the signs of ADHD appear in children when they have low levels of fatty acids in their body. It is not yet known if supplements of omega-3 fatty acids can improve the child’s behavior. Omega-3 is known to affect the neurotransmitters/brain chemicals. Both ADHD and omega-3 show two distinct symptoms that increase the need to urinate and cause excessive thirst. A balance of omega-3 and omega 6 is best for overall health.
Foods recommended for children with ADHD should include fish, lean meats, beans, whole grains, vegetables, and fruits. It is best to consult a dietician when suffering from this condition.
A few believe that artificial food colors and additives contribute to ADHD. Try and cut off the intake of colorful cereals, candy, sweetened drinks, and food additives to improve the affected child’s behavior improves and health. You also need to eliminate food products which are processed. Instead, go for foods that are healthy and fresh to improve the overall health of the child.
Large amounts of minerals and vitamins can turn toxic for the child and there is no evidence that ADHD can be treated with supplements. All you need to do is balance the food that is given to the child. Additionally, eating a lot of fast food and caffeine also brings on the symptoms of ADHD.
It is especially important to avoid the intake of candy. Loaded with artificial colors and sugar, these are bad for children suffering from ADHD and are known to promote hyperactivity/ADHD symptoms. Additionally, caffeine should be avoided as well. It is found in corn syrup, sodas, etc. Avoid stuff containing sugar, sweeteners, and eliminate sodas as they worsen the symptoms of ADHD. Both caffeine and sugar cause hyperactivity in children.
Along with that, one must also avoid frozen vegetables and fruits as they contain artificial colors. These are also treated with organophosphates, which are known to cause behavioral problems seen in ADHD. Start avoiding frostings and cake mixes as they too contain artificial colors and high amount of sugar which leads to hyperactivity. It shouldn’t come as a surprise but one must avoid energy drinks. They contain a high amount of sugar and caffeine, which could take a toll on one’s health.
Eating seafood that contains some amount of mercury can increase the symptoms of ADHD. These include tilefish, swordfish, king mackerel, and shark. Mercury is hard to digest and accumulates in the brain over a period of time. Ask your doctor or nutritionist to help you understand which fish are safe to consume.
Many children are sensitive to foods like oranges, grapes, tomatoes, corn, beans, eggs, wheat, soy, chocolate, milk, etc. These foods may be contributing to your child’s symptoms. Try and eliminate these foods from your child’s diet.
