ADHD is generally diagnosed in preschool, when children cannot control their behavior or pay attention. This makes it challenging for the child, parents, teacher, and classmates. In the United States alone, it is estimated that approximately 2 million children have ADHD.
It’s not uncommon for children to be prescribed all kinds of medications. These do decrease some symptoms of ADHD, but they also create a number of severe side-effects. Parents are now looking for more natural solutions for their children.
Symptoms of ADHD
If you believe that you or a loved one may have ADHD, look for some of the following symptoms:
- Acting restless, not being able to sit still for extended periods of time.
- Highly impulsive behaviour is displayed.
- Participating in highly stimulating activities.
- Being inattentive to others.
- Having a hard to starting focused.
- Issues with organization.
Current ADHD Medications and Their Effects
There have been so many medications to hit the market, that some parents are becoming frustrated with the results. The problem is, researchers cannot agree on the actual cause of the disorder. For many years, it was believed that ADHD was caused by an imbalance of dopamine.
Dopamine is the neurotransmitter responsible for pleasure, reward, attention, and motivation. Ritalin for instance, targets the imbalance of dopamine levels. It is a strong medication, leading to potential withdrawal symptoms and addiction.
Now, it’s said that ADHD is not only associated with dopamine, but is inherited structurally within certain areas of the brain. Therefore, the many individuals (both children and adults) who are taking Ritalin, may not be treating their disorder in an effective and safe manner.
Some common side effects of Ritalin include, anxiety, insomnia, headache, dizziness, stomach pain, addiction, slowing of growth in children, seizures, blurred vision, and depression. As you can see, more natural remedies are in high demand. No one wants their child to experience these side-effects.
Natural Remedies for ADHD
Instead of simply spiking dopamine levels, natural remedies focus on overall brain function and health. When overall brain tissue and health improve, attention span is more likely to improve as well. There are many nootropics that focus on overall brain health and cognitive function.
Piracetam for example, is the oldest racetam nootropic. It works by enhancing the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. This increases alertness, brain energy, and mental sharpness. It is also known to encourage new connections to form. Piracetam is currently being prescribed to ADHD patients in Europe, due to the positive effects.
ADHD and Diet
There are a wide variety of vitamins and minerals that you need to obtain through your diet. Nutrition and mental health are not independent of one another. The foods we consume have a direct correlation with brain activity.
Vitamin B Complex
B vitamins have been linked to a reduction in stress and improved neural activity. These vitamins needs to be consumed through our diet, as our body does not produce them. They have been known to improve memory, motivation levels, and concentration.
They also aid in healthy sleeping patterns and add to levels of acetylcholine. Some of the best sources include whole grains, rice, eggs, milk, nuts, fish, leafy greens, soy, meat, and liver.
Protein
When you eat protein, it releases energy sustainably. This is beneficial for a child with ADHD, as energy levels can be more stable throughout the day. If energy levels are more even, then children may have an easier time staying focused.
Sugar and Carbs
Glucose is essential for brain energy, however, many children are eating far too many items that are made with refined sugar. This spikes energy levels and then makes a person crash. This is terrible for children with ADHD. In order to keep glucose levels more stable, incorporate more complex carbohydrates (legumes, whole grains, etc.)
Supplements and ADHD
Ritalin has so many side-effects, so it’s ideal to take a more holistic approach. Various nootropics do not yield significant side-effects and do not create addictive behaviours. You can purchase nootropics legally online.
Different nootropics work for a variety of needs. Some will increase attention, while others will create higher levels of motivation. Nootropics target different neurotransmitters than medications like Adderall. Since they’re not stimulants, they do not produce the negative side-effects that are commonly associated with ADHD drugs.
Try some of the following stacks to achieve the results you’re looking for, without worrying about negative effects:
Piracetam and Alpha GPC
[sc:piracetam ]
This is a basic stack, which has been shown to be effective. This is a good stack to try if you’re a beginner or a child. Piracetam influences the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, which improves a number of cognitive functions. It also helps to increase blood flow to the brain, providing more oxygen, boosting energy levels.
Alpha GPC is an excellent source of choline, which is essential for the synthesis of acetylcholine. This will increase benefits, providing a better outcome than Piracetam taken on its own. Many also like to take fish oil with this stack. Fish oil is simply great for your brain health, providing it with the omega-fatty acids it needs.
Modafinil/Adrafinil, Acetyl-L-Tyrosine, and a Choline Supplement
[sc:adrafinil ]
This stack is best for more severe cases. Users can take either Modafinil or Adrafinil (Modafinil is harder to obtain because it’s a prescription drug). These act as a stimulant, but not exactly how Adderall works. They are typically used for patients suffering from narcolepsy, as they improve energy and alertness.
Acetyl-L-Tyrosine is essential for the production of various neurotransmitters: dopamine, epinephrine, serotonin, and norepinephrine. These neurotransmitters regulate mood and enhance mental alertness. The choline supplement aids in the production of acetylcholine.
As with any supplement or drug, consult your doctor with any concerns you have. If you’re taking other medications, please look into possible interactions.
