Vitamin Supplements - Effective Additions to Your ADHD Treatment Arsenal




Studies have shown that children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (or ADHD) often have proven vitamin and mineral deficiencies. Because of these findings, many research in recent years have focused on investigating the role of vitamin and mineral supplementation in the treatment of ADHD in children. But do these ADHD vitamin supplements help in reducing the symptoms in children?





ADHD, which is a disorder of inattention, distractibility, impulsivity, and hyperactivity, affects an estimated 3 to 5% of school-aged children. Investigations into the nutritional status of these children showed that they often suffer from nutritional deficiencies which might be the cause of their symptoms or are aggravated by them. The most common vitamin and mineral deficiencies found are those of the minerals zinc and magnesium and of members of the vitamin B complex.





ADHD vitamin supplements help correct or improve symptoms in children and adolescents with theADHD. Vitamin and mineral supplementation is usually coupled with dietary and lifestyle changes, behavioral intervention, and homeopathy. With the increasing understanding on the relationship between diet and brain function, more and more persons with the hyperactivity disorder are taking vitamin supplements.





Zinc and magnesium are the nutrients most commonly found to be deficient in people with this ADHD. Zinc is an important component of optimal functioning of the brain and nervous system. Thus, it is commonly referred to as the intelligence mineral. Children with zinc deficiencies are less responsive to stimulant drugs. Recommended zinc intake per day is 15 mg.





Magnesium is involved in harmonizing brain function. People with low levels of magnesium are noted to be fidgety, anxious, restless, and show coordination problems and learning difficulties. Supplementing with 200mg of magnesium for six months is shown to significantly improve symptoms of hyperactivity in children.





Food rich in zinc and magnesium include ginger root, shrimps, turnips, garlic, raisings, wheatgerm, and beans.





The vitamin B complex is an important component of optimal brain function and development. Sources of this vitamin are mung beans, alfalfa, lentil sprouts, tuna, asparagus, cabbage, tomatoes, mackerel, margarine, eggs, and cheese.





Vitamin B1, or thiamin, is important for improving your child's focus and concentration. Vitamin B3, or niacin, is important to balance blood sugar levels. Improving blood sugar level helps control the impulsivity and restlessness seen in children with this disorder. Studies have also shown niacin to be helpful in alleviating symptoms of schizophrenia. Vitamin B6 improves serotonin levels in the brain. Low levels of serotonin leads to lethargy and depression. Vitamin B12 is also needed. Since our daily dose of vitamin B12 is readily available in our diet, supplementation is needed only when the child is a vegetarian.





The essential fatty acids, Omega-3 and Omega-6, are important in brain function. Essential fatty acids are converted to DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), which is needed for optimal brain function and mental performance in children. Experts believe that deficiencies come about not only because of inadequate intake, but also because the needs of these children are higher and their absorption is poor. These children are also unable to convert these fatty acids into DHA. Food sources include cold-water fish, like tuna, and vegetable oils.





If you want to start your child on a supplement/diet program, it is recommended that you contact a nutritional advisor. The effectiveness of a supplement program is enhanced when coupled with other therapies. A supplement program can likewise be started even when your child is on prescription stimulants. Results from several clinical trials have shown that, indeed, ADHD vitamin supplements help enhance the effects of these prescription stimulants.


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