Are there vitamins for ADD? Do experts support the use of nutritional supplements for behavioral disorders?
All you have to do is pick up a nutrition text book to learn that "nutrient deficiencies are known causes of behavioral problems." Too much television, lack of a regular routine, lack of physical exercise and food additives are also problems.
Vitamins And Health
As is the case with most conditions, a complete approach is better than addressing a single symptom. In this case, the symptom that is commonly focused on is hyperactivity.
The real goal should be to achieve better impulse control and attentiveness. Drugs like Ritalin may not help with those things.
A complete approach would address all of the factors mentioned above. Food additives for example have been shown to worsen attention deficit disorders with and without hyperactivity. Sodium benzoate and dyes are items that can cause problems according to several studies.
You can avoid those ingredients by reading food labels. They may be in your child's favorite food. Hopefully you can find an alternative that is just as satisfying and probably much healthier.
When it comes to vitamins for ADD, there is evidence that magnesium, iron, zinc and omega-3 fatty acids are beneficial, but it could be any essential nutrient. Ideally a child's diet would provide all essential nutrients in reasonable, but not excessive amounts. Sadly, most popular foods contain excessive calories, but few nutrients.
One study showed that chocolate bars and chips contributed to hyperactive behavior. The higher the intake, the more likely the child in the study was to be described as hyperactive. So while candy and other treats may be "okay" on an occasional basis, they should not be a daily part of a child's diet.
While nutritionists recognize that taking vitamins for ADD may be beneficial and is certainly healthier than taking stimulant drugs, they also put a lot of emphasis on routine. It is much easier to establish a routine early in life, before a child starts elementary school.
But, regardless of the child's age, he or she will benefit from regular mealtimes, regular bedtime, regular nap time and regular physical activity. Even adults benefit from that kind of routine. They sleep better at night. They are less likely to be overweight and less likely to struggle with anxiety issues.
What does too much television have to do with attention deficits or hyperactivity disorders? Well, you certainly won't see vitamins for ADD or other natural approaches advertised during children's programming. Parents watching TV are far more likely to see a commercial for one of the new ADHD drugs than for something healthy and natural.
What you will see advertised during kid's programming are sugary breakfast cereals, calorie-dense snacks and lots of candy. Those advertisements are aimed directly at our children. Advertising execs know how to reach their audience.
When kids spend a lot of time watching TV, they are less likely to get the physical activity they need to be able to settle down and focus.
To sum it up, vitamins for ADD may be helpful. But try some of the other suggestions, too.