ADD/ADHD: THE NATURAL WAY
ADHD are the initials that are meaningful down the pedestrian level in Wellness. Most informed people know what the initials stand for and possibly someone who has been given this unfortunate labeling ‘diagnosis.’ But here are the Top 5 universal diagnostic indicators of ADHD. You might have ADHD if?
1.) Multi-tasking on 10 or more projects at once is normal
2.) Communicating with a simple ‘Subject- Verb- Object’ is similarly difficult to configuring a Chemistry experiment
3.) Focusing on someone’s conversation escapes you, as you’re driving along the road, and you blurt out? Squirrel? What Squirrel?
4.) Presenting an abridged, bottom-line presentation without the back story is nearly impossible.
5.) Sitting still is more torturous than water boarding from the CIA
All humor aside, there are more myths around this mental malady than almost any other in health. Knowing these myths are critical to foundational health and a sustained and successful outcome. The biggest myth as identified by an outside observance that it’s ‘purely psychological’. Next is that a young child will ‘grow out of it.’ Conversely, as a Parent, that you’re helpless and there’s nothing you can do.
The root causes of ADD/ADHD are oftentimes genetically traced, have environmental concerns or dietary roots. The biggest culprit within any diet is refined sugar and food allergies. Sometimes children have a simple lack of interest in learning. The biggest success for a parent in child learning success is to identify how a child’s strongest comprehension style: kinesthetic, visual, or auditory.
Some of the Symptoms of ADD/ADHD can be identified are as followed:
· Difficulty in concentrating and diminished focus with lengthy interchanges
· Easily distracted, bored, and impatient
· Difficulty organized, listening, following instructions, or completing tasks
· Prone to losing things
· Fidgety, impatient, and squirming behavior
As a holistic nutritionist, my biggest ‘go to’ for success is nutrition. All the following Supplements work as a chain reaction. Vitamin B6 and Magnesium is essential for a health nervous system in assisting the body/brain to produce serotonin and dopamine. B6 calms irritability as well as increases concentration. Vitamin D is usually a deficient vitamin—which eliminates the ability to naturally produce serotonin. Zinc regulates dopamine as well and assists the body in relaxing the nervous system. A Probiotic neutralizes any digestive issues for intestinal health. GABA, a calming acid, and Rhodiola Rosea can especially be an assistance with Adults’ nervous systems ability to produce serotonin and dopamine. Lastly, iron is essential to create dopamine.
The following Essential Oils of Vetiver; Cedarwood; Ylang Ylang; Frankincense; and Lavender all have a calming effect and enhance memory.
Foods containing Fish Oil and the all-important Omega 3 Oils. Seafood, especially salmon and al grain fed proteins. Consuming protein assists to keep blood sugar levels stable and assists these neurotransmitters to ‘fie off’ the biochemical messengers for efficient brain function. Avoid ANY foods with caffeine, chemicals, processed foods, or fast “franken” foods. Monosodium glutamate is the biggest blocker for brain function.
Identifying food intolerances and food allergies is as simple as taking five days consecutively in one week and focusing on one of these food groups per day: dairy; wheat; corn; soy; and any other foods that you might be suspicious of. Do one food group solely per day. A couple of bonus days could include eggs, peanuts, and chocolate. Catalog the experiences for each to consult further with your Healthcare Practitioner. Dr. Hulda Clark’s iconic book: “How to Cure Any Disease” is an amazing resource for executing this food elimination execution.
Exercise and energetic play help mitigate impulsivity and hyperactivity. Organized sports and martial arts are a possibility as well as yoga and modalities that are calmer. The key is to find one you like.
Organization for this child’s life is key in every area, but Sleep is the first priority. Getting enough sleep; Going to bed at the same time; and completing 10-20 minutes of a calming activity prior to bed. A good night’s sleep creates a calmer brain in the morning.
Lastly, a word of encouragement for you, especially as a parent with a child having a ‘situation’ with ADD/ADHD. These children and adults are some of the most intelligent, gifted, and creative on Planet Earth. Diet and behavior modification tools and meditation is key. Although high maintenance in raising, I promise you, these children will make you the proudest.
Dr. Jo Dee Baer
1-800-820-0854