7 Effective Natural Remedies for ADHD

7 Effective Natural Remedies for ADHD

ADHD, or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, is a condition where a person suffers from continuous attention-related issues that can further affect their normal behavior. The problem can be identified during the initial years of life and can progress into adulthood. Children with ADHD may exhibit symptoms such as talkativeness, carelessness, forgetfulness, over-excitability, lack of attention, and more. The condition can be caused by pre-term birth, exposure to lead during pregnancy, and other factors.

Natural remedies to improve the condition

1. Limit intake of packaged foods
Individuals with ADHD are advised to avoid certain food items like salad dressings and carbonated beverages as they contain high amounts of sodium benzoate, which is a preservative that can trigger hyperactivity in children. Similarly, foods like cereals, granola bars, candy, breadcrumbs, and more that contain colors like FD&C Red No. 40, FD&C Yellow No.5, and others are also recognized as triggers of ADHD symptoms.

2. Neurotherapy
This form of therapy, now known as Neurofeedback, utilizes the scalp pads to recognize the activities of the brain waves with the help of a device known as an electroencephalograph or EEG. The therapy focuses on increasing the attention span of the patient through special types of audio beep or video games so that those with ADHD lead a better life.

3. Increase physical activity
The symptoms of ADHD can be effectively controlled by engaging in any kind of regular physical activity regularly, as exercise has been shown to improve attention and academic performance in children. Furthermore, exercise can also enhance mood and reduce stress levels, resulting in better impulse control.

4. Meditate
ADHD patients struggle with maintaining their focus and attention. However, practicing mindfulness techniques such as meditation, which includes breathing exercises and journaling, which entails writing down daily thoughts, can help alleviate symptoms of anxiety and hyperactivity in patients.

5. Maintain sleep routine
Resting and having a proper sleep routine forms an essential part of managing the symptoms of ADHD without any use of medicine. This is because lack of proper sleep has been known to trigger the symptoms and overall functioning of the brain. Some of the tips that can help the patient sleep better comprise of restricting screen time before going to bed, opting for calming activities like reading or listening to soothing music before bedtime, and avoiding hot water baths before going off to sleep as it tends to elevate body temperature and cause sleep disturbance.

6. Yoga
Patients are often advised to opt for yoga or Tai-Chi classes as these are considered movement-based treatments that aid in lowering the symptoms of ADHD. This form of exercise is known to elevate dopamine levels in the body and aid in boosting neural connections along the brain, which also results in better attention.

7. Using natural supplements
Patients with ADHD may benefit from taking specific vitamins and minerals that can enhance brain function. These include taking supplements of omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to improve overall brain health. Additionally, magnesium supplements also prove effective as they assist in better maintenance of bodily functions, nerve cell regulation, and communication. Furthermore, iron supplements boost dopamine production, leading to better focus and attention.