Supplements that can Improve ADHD Symptoms?

 Supplements and vitamins that can Improve ADHD Symptoms?

Research shows that medication does a good job of managing ADHD symptoms in many children and adults. Still, the thought of starting your young child on a drug, no matter how effective it might be, causes lots of hand-wringing and soul-searching in parents before they agree to do it. There are potential side effects to be considered, along with the fact that ADHD medications don’t work the same way for every child in managing symptoms. So some parents look for other natural remedies for ADHD.

ADHD Supplement: Omega-3 Fatty Acids - are probably the best-researched supplement for ADHD. Numerous studies, including two meta-analyses, found benefits in the area of hyperactivity, attention, or impulsivity. One study notes EPA plus DHA (add the two together). Most omega-3 gummies don’t provide these higher levels, so your best option is to give your child capsules or a liquid. For children who are vegetarian, algae oil is available, but it requires large doses to get enough EPA and DHA.

ADHD Supplement: Zinc - One study showed that taking zinc with a psychostimulant caused a nearly 40 percent reduction in the amount of the stimulant required to function at optimal levels. Other studies have shown benefits for ADHD symptoms in general. 

ADHD Supplement: Vitamin D - Newer research shows that children with ADHD have lower vitamin D levels than children without the condition. One study showed that expectant mothers with low vitamin D levels had a higher likelihood of their children having ADHD.

ADHD Supplement: Iron - Low levels of mineral iron can be a significant problem in children with ADHD. Studies have shown that iron is crucial for normal brain function and that treating it with supplemental iron can improve.

ADHD Supplement: Magnesium - This mineral won’t directly improve attention but can calm hyperactivity and agitation, which compromise attention. I find magnesium helpful for children who have a “rebound effect” after their stimulant medication wears off.

ADHD Supplement: Inositol- Inositol is found in very small amounts in many foods. In concentrated doses, it helps to counter agitation and anxiety.

ADHD Supplement: Ginkgo Biloba - This herb has been used to improve cognitive function for thousands of years. A couple of small studies have shown that it may be helpful in children with ADHD.

Other Herbs for ADHD

Bacopa and Gotu kola, which are part of Ayurvedic medicine (the traditional medicine of India), have both been used to treat ADHD, but western medicine has done little research on them. One herb, St. John’s wort, is often recommended for children with ADHD, but research shows that it helps with mood disorders, not ADHD. A study on using St. John’s wort to treat ADHD reached the same conclusion: It did not help. This study was discussed in the June 2008 Journal of the American Medical Association issue.

Please work with your doctor to get a recommended amount for your child by age and weight.