introduction
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a complex nervous disorder that is characterized by noticeably higher levels of hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention that affect behavioural, emotional, cognitive, academic, and social functions.[1] The characteristics of ADHD theoretically appear before your child hits 7 years of age and currently affects 5% to 9% of children in Australia.
signs & symptoms
Some of the early signs to look out for may include problems with their academic performance, relationships, and self-esteem. Other symptoms that coincide with these signs include other physical or psychological illnesses like speech or language disabilities, depression, and anxiety according to the American Academy of Paediatrics.[2] Two main types of ADHD exist that have different behavioural characteristics. See the below table for a breakdown of each type.
causes
From a naturopathic standpoint there are several factors that influence a person’s susceptibility to developing ADHD, including the below:
- Genetics and environmental factors cause imbalances to neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin [3]
- Increased oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain [4]
- Dysfunction to the stress response (HPA axis) and higher cortisol levels as a result [5]
- Paediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorder (PANDAS) may increase the expression of symptoms [7]
prevention
Although genetics may not necessarily be within your control, there are a lot of other angels we can use to prevent and manage ADHD symptoms, including the below:
- Genetics – children with ADHD often have at least one close relative who has ADHD [6]
- Focus on pre and early postnatal health – limiting maternal drug, alcohol, and cigarette use; exposure to toxins and heavy metals like lead and PCBs; ensure thyroid health [8]
- Address nutritional deficiencies – vitamin B6, folate, vitamin B12, iron, vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids [9]
- Identify and limit intolerant foods like food colours and additives [10]
- Support gut health [11]
- Improve sleep hygiene and health [12]
- Regulate and promote a healthy stress response [13]
- Support impaired methylation pathways with activated B vitamins and choline [14]
- Identify heavy metal toxicity and reduce environmental exposure [15]
- Reduce systemic inflammation [16]
- Balance blood sugar levels [17]
testing
Your health practitioner may recommend testing any of the below areas to support effective treatment of ADHD symptoms in your individual situation:
- Omega-3 – EPA and DHA
- Folate and vitamin B12
- Zinc: copper ratio
- Serum vitamin D
- Homocysteine
- Iron studies
- Blood glucose
- Microbiome insights
- Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis (HTMA)
- Methylation profile
- Cortisol Awakening Response (CAR) profile
treatment
There are a few options available to effectively support living with ADHD, such as:
- Pharmaceutical drugs – psychostimulant medications are most commonly prescribed by medical doctors, however, may also prescribe other mood stabilisers like anti-depressants or alpha-2-agonists as well
- Nutritional supplements – B vitamins, magnesium, omega-3, iron, vitamin D, and probiotics are most commonly prescribed by your naturopath/nutritionist
- Herbal medicine – Kava kava, Chamomile, Valerian, Lemon balm, Passionflower, American ginseng, Bacopa, Ginkgo, and Rosemary may be prescribed by your naturopath/herbalist
- Diet – an elimination diet is usually prescribed under the guidance of your health professional, however, may transition over to or try gluten-free, casein-free, low-FODMAP, anti-inflammatory, alkaline, or Mediterranean diet long term depending on the individual situation
- Lifestyle – regular moderate to high-intensity exercise has seen promise in managing this condition in addition to limiting recreational screen time
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