Health & Wellness
There is still much debate over what ADHD actually is, and whether or not it is even a valid "condition" at all, at least in the way most people define a health condition. Some say ADHD is a true disease attributable to family history and genetics, while others point to petrochemical-based food dyes, artificial additives, synthetic sweeteners, and processed foods as triggers of the brain abnormalities that spur inattentiveness and uncontrollable behavior.
Well, it appears that even mainstream science is finally coming around - sort of - to the idea that diet plays a crucial role in improving behavior, focus, and mental capacity in many that have been diagnosed with ADHD. While stopping shy of recommending dietary changes as a primary approach to ADHD, doctors from Northwestern University Medical School at least say that dietary changes constitute a secondary option.
A systematic review of controlled scientific studies on ADHD and diet apparently turned up conflicting for the researchers, with some studies showing a benefit, and others not. However, many cases still show incredible success in reversing ADHD symptoms by simply decreasing or eliminating intake of refined sugars, for instance, or any foods that contain synthetic sweeteners, preservatives, or colorings.
"A greater attention to the education of parents and children in a healthy dietary pattern, omitting items shown to predispose to ADHD, is perhaps the most promising and practical complementary or alternative treatment of ADHD," said the study.
There are many parents that swear by dietary alterations as their primary mode of intervention, though. Since dietary-induced inflammation and neurotoxicity is considered by many to be a primary cause of ADHD symptoms, eliminating these toxic triggers from the diet and replacing them with healthy alternatives rich in vitamins, minerals, phytonutrients, and amino acids is a great way for many people to help cure and even reverse ADHD.
Sources
Healthy eating may help ADHD kids: US study
Comment: The following articles support the authors premise that diet can help children suffering from hyperactivity and attention issues:
Study: Cutting Out Suspect Foods Could Help Calm ADHD Children
Study: Western Diet Link to ADHD
ADHD: It's The Food, Stupid: In addition to dietary changes, natural and alternative therapies can help children suffering from ADHD:
Natural, Herbal, and Alternative Treatments for ADD/ADHD
Use Herbal Remedies for ADHD