Go with Protein Foods rich in protein — lean beef, pork, poultry, fish, eggs, beans, nuts, soy, and low-fat dairy products — may have beneficial effects on ADHD symptoms. Protein-rich foods are used by the brain to make neurotransmitters — chemicals that help brain cells talk with each other.
A high-protein diet.
Beans, cheese, eggs, meat, and nuts can be good sources of protein. Eat these kinds of foods in the morning and for after-school snacks. It may improve concentration and possibly make ADHD medications work longer.
Use music. Soothing music, such as classical music, can help some children calm down. Experiment with different types of music to find out what works for your child. Use music in the background for times when activity levels should be low, such as homework time, dinner time, or before bedtime.
In general, the best diet for people with ADHD is the diet that doctors recommend for most other people — one that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, healthful fats, and lean proteins. It should include limited amounts of saturated fats and junk foods.
Fruits are a very good source of nutrients. For ADHD patients bananas are a must. Bananas are very rich in zinc and magnesium, and these nutrients have been proven to dopamine and various neurotransmitters. Furthermore, fruits are loaded with various nutrients and complex carbohydrates.
Focusing on breathing forces you to clear your mind and helps to give you a moment's clarity. Secondly, deep breathing helps to release endorphins as well as helps to clear your body of toxins. Endorphins help you feel better overall and getting rid of toxins in your body can improve your overall wellbeing.
Help kids understand that having ADHD is not their fault, and that they can learn ways to improve the problems it causes. Spend special time together every day. Make time to talk and enjoy relaxing, fun activities with your child — even if it's just for a few minutes. Give your child your full attention.
You may wonder if there's something besides medicine or behavior therapy you can do to help your child with ADHD. Can unconventional treatments work? Alternative treatments for ADHD include elimination diets, omega-3 supplements, parent training, exercise, yoga, meditation, neurofeedback, and memory training.
Protein-rich foods include eggs, lean meat, milk, cheese, nuts, soy, and low-fat yogurt. These foods can help maintain a feeling of fullness and prevent spikes in blood sugar levels. Some research also found that having a protein-rich breakfast can help enhance mood, attention, and alertness.
Kids who have ADHD benefit from the vitamins, minerals, and fiber that fruit provides. Vitamin C and folate, in particular, play a direct role in helping brain function, says Lemond. Orange juice, oranges, and strawberries are all good sources of vitamin C, and they're all smoothie-friendly.
ADD Diet Rule 4: Eat smart carbs.
Eat carbohydrates that do not spike your blood sugar and are high in fiber, such as those found in vegetables and fruits, like blueberries and apples. Carbohydrates are not the enemy; they are essential to your health.
People with ADHD are often over-stimulated by colors, patterns, and even temperature. Choose neutral, soft, and calming hues of blue, green, and brown to encourage more restful sleep. Keep it simple.
Some triggers may be directly related to general health or lifestyle factors. What you eat, how much sleep you receive, the time spend sitting, and the amount of caffeine you drink matters. Although far from conclusive, there's some evidence that a poor diet impacts the symptoms of people with ADHD, too.
Research suggests that while symptoms may change as people grow older, people who have ADHD in childhood are often still affected by the condition in adulthood. However, estimates vary as to how many people still have persistent symptoms and impairment in adulthood.
For some people with ADHD, mild stimulants such as caffeine and theobromine (a bitter chemical from the cocoa plant and present in chocolate) have similar effects to the more powerful drugs commonly used in treating the disorder.