A Background on ADHD and the Importance of Nutrition

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A Background on ADHD and the Importance of Nutrition

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity (AHD), also known as Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) is the most commonly diagnosed mental disorder of, but is not limited to children. It is estimated that about 3% to 5% of children have ADHD, although other experts say that 8% to10% of school children have ADHD.

ADHD is a mental condition that begins in childhood which can be either outgrown or carried out into adulthood. Children with ADHD are typically inattentive, hyperactive, and impulsive. Although these qualities are generally common among children, these symptoms are more extreme or intolerable among ADHD patients. Often, children with ADHD does not appear to be listening or paying attention, are easily distracted and have difficulties following instructions. Also, they do not stay seated as expected and when they do sit they often bounce, squirm, or fidget. They also have difficulty waiting for their turn and often interrupt others.

And if a child with ADHD does not outgrow the condition and carries it out into adulthood, he is likely to have low self-esteem, impulsive, forgetful, and is prone to anxiety, frustration, substance abuse or addiction, depression, procrastination, and chronic boredom.

The cause of ADHD is unknown. However, it has been observed that ADHD tends to run in families, thus it is surmised that ADHD is hereditary. Another factor that experts believe may be a factor in the development of ADHD symptoms is the imbalance in brain chemicals or neurotransmitters. This can be a possible result of poor nutrition, substance abuse, and infections during pregnancy as well as toxin exposure during childhood.

Other mental conditions such as depression and anxiety disorders have similar symptoms to that of ADHD. Thus, in order to accurately diagnose ADHD, a complete psychiatric evaluation is needed. And since ADHD is not an adult-onset disorder, it must be verified as being present from childhood.

There is no cure for this mental condition. However, the symptoms can be controlled, thus, helping patients cope with their environment. The treatment for ADHD includes a combination of drug medication and various psychosocial therapies such as behavioural modification, counselling, and social skills training.

Moreover, majority, if not all patients with ADHD is found to have gastrointestinal dysfunctions as well. That is why nutrition and proper diet is very important. Other experts believe that taking supplemental enzymes would be greatly beneficial. Enzymes help the body digest and absorb nutrients efficiently. Thus, they can help the body harvest the necessary amino acid from proteins that are essential for the health and proper functioning of the neurotransmitters or brain chemicals.

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