ADHD what can you do?
Risk Factors - Genetics, blood relatives. Exposure to environmental toxins. Lead from paint, pipes, old buildings, Maternal drug use (alcohol, smoking)
Medications prescribed - Stimulants and non stimulants.
Adderall is a stimulant
Wellbutran or Strattera if the stimulant is too much
Side Effects of these medications are Sleep problems, Mood swings, Loss of appetite, heart issues. Suicidal thoughts or actions. Higher diastolic BP, lower self esteem.
(Diastolic BP - bottom number, is the pressure in the arteries when the heart rests between beats. This is the time when the heart fills with blood and gets oxygen. A normal diastolic blood pressure is lower than 80. A reading of 90 or higher means you have high blood pressure.)
Food Coloring - Paying attention, organization, lower self esteem, frequent interruption
-Sodium Benzoate found in carbonated drinks, salad dressing, fruit juices
-FD&C yellow 6 found in bread crumbs, cereal, candy, icing, soft drinks
-D&C 10 found in juices, sorbets, smoked haddock
-Yellow 5 found in pickles, cereal, granola bars, yogurt
-FD&C red 40 found in soft drinks, some medication, gelatin desserts, ice cream
Allergens
-Chemical additives and preservatives like potato chips, chewing gum, dry cake mix, cereal, butter.
-Milk and eggs
-chocolate
-Foods containing salicylates like chilli powder, apple, cider, grapes, oranges, peaches, plums, prunes, tomatoes.
(Salicylates are naturally occurring in some foods)
An elimination diet is recommended to log food triggers
Minerals and Vitamins are key to producing and regulating neurotransmitters in the brain
-Omega Fatty Acids
Low levels of Omega Fatty acids are known in patients with ADHD. There are two types EPA and DHA. You want 750mg EPA and 500mg DHA.
-Iron increases dopamine
-Zinc regulates dopamine
-Vit C building block for neurotransmitters
-B6 increases dopamine
-Magnesium decreases symptoms
Protein
Triggers alertness levels in the brain, it also prevents surges in blood sugar that may increase hyperactivity.
-High fiber foods like fruits and vegetables, whole grains and legumes can stabilize energy.
Healing Modalities
-Acupuncture
-Biofeedback & Neurofeedback
-Exercise & relaxation
-Meditation
-Grounding work
Herbal Medicines (currently in clinical trials)
-French Maritime Pine Bark Extract (increased visual motor coordination, reduction in hyperactivity and inattentiveness)
-Ginseng (alleviate hyperactivity and inattentiveness)
-Ningdong (another chinese medicine works like ginseng)
-Bacopa (Ayurvedic treatment reducing restlessness and improve self control)
Essential Oils
-Lavender oil for sleep and calm
- Vetiver oil for focus
-Rosemary oil for speed and focus
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