Lecture Notes: 5 Natural Remedies for ADHD + Trigger Foods to Avoid - Dr. Axe

Overview

• ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) and ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder) are neurological and behavior-related conditions.
• Symptoms include difficulty concentrating, impulsiveness, and excessive energy.
• Usually begins around age 7 and can continue into adulthood.
• Estimated to affect 9% of American children and over 4% of adults.

Increase in ADHD Diagnoses

• Possible links to diet, sleep, and breathing patterns.
• Sleep deprivation, circadian rhythm disturbances, and sleep-disordered breathing may induce ADHD-like symptoms.

Root Causes of ADD/ADHD

• Genetic link and environmental factors.
• Dietary concerns: refined sugar, artificial sweeteners, food additives, nutritional deficiencies, and food allergies.
• Learning environments not suited to a child's learning style.

Symptoms of ADD/ADHD

In Children

• Difficulty concentrating, easily distracted, easily bored, difficulty organizing tasks, fidgety, and impatience.

In Adults

• Difficulty focusing, restlessness, mood swings, organization issues, unstable relationships, and addiction risks.

Common Treatments

• Medications like Ritalin and Adderall have significant side effects.
• linked to personality changes, suicidal thoughts and other disturbing side effects
• Ritalin can cause nervousness, agitation, and anxiety
• Adderall can be highly addictive
• other side effects include hallucinations, muscle twitches, high blood pressure, and extreme mood swings

Top 5 Natural Remedies for ADHD

1. Fish Oil: 1,000 mg daily.
   • Benefits brain function, anti-inflammatory.
2. B-Complex Vitamins: 50 mg daily.
   • Essential for serotonin formation.
3. Multi-Mineral Supplement: Includes zinc, magnesium, and calcium.
   • Calms nervous system.
4. Probiotic: 25-50 billion units daily.
   • Supports intestinal health.
5. GABA: 250 mg twice daily.
   • Calming amino acid (consult doctor).

Bonus Remedy: Rhodiola Rosea: Improves focus by affecting serotonin and dopamine.

Essential Oils for ADHD

• Vetiver and Cedarwood: Improve focus, calming.
• Rosemary and Peppermint: Enhance memory, alertness.
• Ylang Ylang and Lavender: Calming effects.
• Frankincense: Emotional wellness, clarity.

Top Foods for ADHD

• Additive-free, Unprocessed Foods: Avoid additives, preservatives.
• Foods High in B-Vitamins: Vital for nervous system. Sources: wild animal products, leafy greens.
• Poultry: Tryptophan helps serotonin production.
• Eat Breakfast: Stabilizes blood sugar.
• Wild-Caught Salmon: Rich in omega-3 and B6.

ADHD Foods to Avoid

• Sugar: Primary trigger.
• Gluten: Can worsen behavior.
• Conventional Dairy: A1 casein can cause reactions.
• Food Coloring and Dyes: Common in processed foods.
• Caffeine: Can exacerbate symptoms.
• MSG and HVP: May decrease dopamine.
• Nitrites: Found in processed foods.
• Artificial Sweeteners and Soy: Can disrupt hormones.

Lifestyle Changes for ADHD

For Children

• Show Affection: Positive reinforcement.
• Success Opportunities: Engage in creative activities.
• Regular Exercise: Balances hormone levels.
• Organizational System: Tailored methods for tasks.
• Cooking: Involvement in dietary choices.
• Healthy Sleep: Address disorders, establish routines.
• Avoid Mouth Breathing: Address nasal obstructions.

For Adults

• Organizational Systems: Find what works best for you.
• Use Technology: Apps for planning and reminders.
• Exercise: Relieve stress, engage in fun activities.
• More Sleep: Address disorders, establish sleep patterns.

Conclusion

• Removing trigger foods and adopting healthy diets can help treat ADHD.
• Consistent implementation of dietary and lifestyle changes is key.