How to Treat ADHD, or ADD, with Natural Remedies

ADD, or ADHD, is a learning disability characterized by difficulty with concentration. If you, your child, or someone you know suffers from ADHD, there are some natural remedies that you can try without the risk of side effects. Many of these natural remedies effectively deal with the causes of ADHD and offer relief from symptoms.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Thyroid Testing
   
   If you suspect ADHD, always consult your doctor for thyroid testing to rule out the possibility of a thyroid disorder. Thyroid disorders will mimic the symptoms of ADHD.

2. Reduce Metal Exposure
   
   Exposure to metals such as lead and exposure to cigarette smoke increases a child's risk of developing ADHD. If you smoke or live in a home with lead exposure risk, take precautions to minimize the exposure.

3. Behavioral Strategies as a Natural Remedy
   
   Most children benefit from implementing positive reinforcement as a behavior modification. Simply put positive reinforcement focuses on rewarding children for doing what is right, rather than focusing on punishing wrong behavior. Children with ADHD respond well to positive reinforcement techniques.

4. More Protein & Fewer Carbohydrates as a Natural Remedy
   
   Most people with ADHD see a reduction in symptoms when they begin eating more proteins and limit the consumption of carbohydrates. In addition, a diet full of whole foods, rather than packaged and processed foods can reduce symptoms. Whole foods are foods in the form in which they came from nature. Tomatoes, apples, unprocessed chicken breast are examples of whole foods. Frozen meals and boxed meals are processed and contain a variety of food additives.

5. Eliminate Food Additives as a Natural Remedy
   
   Food additives are suspected to contribute to ADHD. Following step 4 above and eating a diet of whole foods will significantly limit exposure to food additives. In addition, learn to read food labels. If you do not understand an ingredient on a food label. Look it up in a book or the internet to find out what it is. Knowing what is in your food is very important for all consumers, but it is especially important to people with sensitivities to food additives.

6. Juices Therapy as a Natural Remedy
   
   Juices that can help in treating ADHD are celery, fennel, pear and parsley. These should be whole, raw fruits and vegetables juiced in a home juicer. Canned juices are pasteurized and the pasteurization destroys digestive enzymes needed to fully absorb the foods. Organic produce is preferred.

[cindyscorner]

on 8/23/2009 I will try this. I have kids on Adderall.

[jwvanno]

on 8/22/2009 Tough topic to write about. Nice job.