Essentially, an adhd diet is about eating a healthy and balanced diet. Poor nutrition can exacerbate the symptoms of ADHD.



Sugar Intake

Reducing sugar intake can certainly help to reduce hyperactivity in children with ADHD. High sugar consumption leads to fluctuation in the body's sugar levels, thus resulting in irritability and mood swings in almost everyone. For children with ADHD, the rise and fall in blood sugar level can cause outbursts of hyperactivity, mood swings, aggression and irritability. A high sugar diet can worsen the symptoms of ADHD in children and contribute to more behaviour problems.

Refined Carbohydrate

Although a low carbohydrate and high protein diet can reduce the symptoms of ADHD, one should never cut out carbohydrates completely from his or her diet. Nowadays, we tend to consume excessive refined carbohydrates such as white flour and white sugar, and processed foods that contain addictives, artificial flavouring and colouring. Refined carbohydrates tend to cause fluctuations in blood sugar levels, which can exacerbate behaviour problems in ADHD sufferers. Instead, aim to consume more whole grains, vegetables and fruits containing complex carbohydrates that help to stabilise blood sugar levels.

Trigger Foods

There are certain foods that may trigger ADHD symptoms. Food addictives such preservatives, dyes, artificial flavouring and sweetener have been known to cause ADHD behaviour problems. Avoid processed foods as they tend to contain these addictives. It's best to eat natural and wholesome foods. There are some foods that tend to cause allergy such as dairy products, wheat, eggs, yeast and orange juice. You can expect to see remarkable improvement in your child when allergy causing foods are eliminated from your diet.

Supplements

Certain supplements can help to alleviate ADHD symptoms. It has been proven that ADHD children who take fish oil are able to spell, write and read better. Fish oil contains essential fatty acids (omega-3) that can reduce hyperactivity. Cod liver oil, flax seed oil and evening primrose oil are also good sources of essential fatty acids. Other supplements which may help with ADHD symptoms are vitamin B6, magnesium and zinc.

Despite the lack of scientific evidence to support dietary changes having a positive effect on ADHD symptoms, many parents have found that diet does indeed play a role in managing the symptoms of ADHD in their children.