Best Foods for ADHD Children

Children with ADHD should not rely only on medication to reduce or eliminate symptoms of ADHD. Eating a healthy diet filled with the best foods for ADHD children. That is foods that promote good mental health and better behavior are the best choices for children.

Organic Foods

Several research studies demonstrate that foods containing preservatives and other food additives are correlated with an increase in ADHD symptoms. Because of this, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that foods free of these additives should be part of any ADHD food treatment.

Also, several studies suggest that foods containing pesticides could be linked to exacerbated ADHD behavior. Thus, consuming organic foods that are free of all these harmful substances is the best idea for children with ADHD.

Sea Vegetables

Sea vegetables are a great ADHD food treatment because of the essential minerals and other materials in this food. Minerals such as zinc are necessary to regulate neurotransmitters such as dopamine; which if lowered, will increase the likelihood of showing ADHD symptoms in children.

Examples of effective vegetables include chlorella and spirulina which may aid in getting rid of harmful dyes and other additives. Other vegetables, such as kelp, have several helpful nutrients including , zinc and chromium.

Omega- 3 and other Essential Fatty Acids

Foods that contain essential fatty acids are some of the best foods for children with ADHD. The problem is that individuals cannot synthesize these fatty acids themselves and must then consume them in their everyday diet. Essential fatty acids are known to decrease the likelihood of ADHD behavioral problems.

Also, these fatty acids are necessary to ensure that the brain is developing in a healthy way. Seafood is one source of good food treatment for ADHD. However, for children who are vegetarians or vegans, spreading flaxseed oil on the top of food will also provide the much needed Omega-3s.

Foods with Zinc

Zinc is an important mineral for parents to be mindful of when incorporating a healthy diet for children with ADHD. It is the second-highest percentage mineral in the body and is found in many types of foods. In 2009, researchers found that zinc is extremely helpful in relieving symptoms of ADHD.

Examples of food that contain zinc are meats such as dark chicken, lamb, pork, and beef. Also, peanuts and peanut butter have significant amounts of zinc. Vegetarians and vegans should be aware that fruits and vegetables are deficient in this important mineral.

ADHD Foods to Avoid

Any food containing high amounts of sugar is considered unhealthy for children with ADHD. One reason is that sugar will bind to zinc, inhibiting its beneficial effects. Foods that are rich in food additives such as dyes and preservatives should also be avoided.

Also studies suggest that foods containing gluten, a protein found in grains such as wheat, rye, and barley have harmful effects on children with ADHD. Salicylic acid found in some fruits and vegetables may have negative effects on children with ADHD, but the reviews are mixed on this compound.

Parents can improve ADHD behavior by incorporating the best foods for ADHD children in their daily diet. These foods may offer the most effective food treatment for children with ADHD.

List of ADHD Foods