Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a concerning issue throughout the Western world. In 2000, the Australian National Survey of Mental Health and Wellbeing reported that 11% of children and adolescents fulfilled the criteria for ADHD. This is a significant portion of our children. The impulsivity, hyperactivity and inattention that characterises ADHD are normal behaviours experienced by all children at some times. It is when they persist as a child’s normal ‘fall-back’ behaviour that they become a cause for concern. What are we doing to our children that lead to such high statistics?
Risk factors for developing ADHD are many and varied, including:
Genetic and epigenetic factors.
Maternal stress and/or substance abuse during the prenatal period impacting upon neurological and endocrinological development
Exposure to environmental toxins (heavy metals, solvents, pesticides etc.)
Sub-optimal nutrition both pre- and post-natally; particularly omega 3 fatty acid, zinc, iron & magnesium deficiencies.
Hypersensitivities to foods and food additives, particularly artificial colourings.
Poor gut and immune development, which may affect the developing brain due to increased oxidative stress and inflammation.
Home & school stress, which strongly predispose children to cognitive and mood problems.
Natural Medicine Therapies for ADHD
Proper nutrition for growing children is vital. Where possible, the diet should be rich in organic fruits, vegetables, meats & fish and low in refined carbohydrates, sugar &processed foods with chemical additives. Cold water fish, walnuts & pumpkin seeds are particularly rich in the essential fatty acids required for healthy development of the brain and nervous system. Elimination diets can be a useful tool in monitoring individual food sensitivities. Studies have shown a 50% reduction in symptoms when such diets have been followed, highlighting the connection between gut sensitivity and ADHD.
Mineral supplementation is often important in treating ADHD. Magnesium reduces excitability and improves sleep in children with ADHD while Calcium relaxes the nervous system. Probiotics are crucial in reducing levels of harmful bacteria in the gut. When allowed to proliferate, these bacteria produce damaging neurotoxins which profoundly affect cognitive function and behaviour. These bacteria feed on and ferment the sugars from our diet, so often modifying or restricting carbohydrates intake is very helpful.
Herbal medicines have been used successfully in the treatment of ADHD. Bacopa improves visual processing & memory; Chamomile relieves anxiety and nervousness; Rhodiola is neuroprotective and stimulates nervous system activity and L-theanine (from green tea) enhances relaxation & learning.
Exercise is a fantastic adjunct to any treatment. Regular, strong cardiovascular exercise enhances brain and neurotransmitter activity and supports healthy cognitive development.