What's Working for You?

[senojshel]

Hi all,

My 8-year old son was diagnosed just this year. He's currently taking medication, but I've inquired about diet and vitamins as a means of treatment too, but I've been given little information (except what I've researched) from his doctors...They just say that there is "no evidence" to support the use of anything other than prescription meds. Has anyone tried vitamins, etc? I am finding it hard to believe that nothing besides the prescribed meds will help. What else from your experience works? It's nice to join a caring group of parents who have their child's best interest in my and at heart. Thanks for your support.

[Janemariekathryn]

Better nutrition and proper amount of sleep definitely helps. More protein and less sugar and processed foods is required. I have my son taking a multivitamin with omega 3 fish oil, fiber vitamin D3 & B12 ( Smarty Pants). A book called ADHD is not a four letter word has good nutritional advice. Good luck !

[eversolepm]

Can dietary changes make a difference? Absolutely! Is it a guarantee? No. They can only be helpful if your child is missing out on something or perhaps sensitive to it. Unfortunately, most doctors don't bother checking to see if our kids magnesium, zinc, b vitamin levels etc... are correct. Most don't bother suggesting avoiding gluten, dairy, dyes, or other preservatives. So unfortunately to figure it out we are left doing our own elimination diets and adding in supplements. If you are up to the challenge some books I recommend are Healing Without Hurting: Treating ADHD, Apraxia, and Autism Spectrum Disorders, The ADHD and Autism Nutritional Supplement Handbook, In-prescription for Autism, and The Feingold Diet. It can be a bit overwhelming having to figure out it all and research on your own but it can help narrow down what questions to start asking. I have found that even though my doctor doesn't suggest checking nutrient levels if I suggest it they will put in an order for it to be done. If you don't want to go it alone try looking for a Integrative Doctor, Naturopath, or Nutritionist who specializes in treating ADHD. They know what to look for and what tests to run (OATS, Heavy Metals, deficiencies...)