Natural supplements for adhd and depression

10 Supplements and Vitamins for ADHD Symptom Control

What ADHD Supplements Improve Symptoms?

Research shows that medication does a good job of managing ADHD symptoms in many children and adults. Still, the thought of starting your eight-year-old son or daughter 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, such as nutrition, exercise, and supplements, to help their child deal with symptoms.

It is important to understand what a supplement is. A nutritional supplement provides basic nutrients for optimal health and function that you may not be getting from your food. Supplements include vitamins, minerals, proteins, and fats. I don’t include herbal or botanical ingredients, such as ginkgo or St. John’s wort, in the supplement category. Botanicals are plant-based products that are not necessarily nutrients, but which may have positive effects on health and function.

Now let’s look at the individual ADHD supplements I recommend. Every natural remedy for ADHD mentioned here has some research to support its effectiveness in improving some symptoms.

[People Also Ask: How Should I Treat My Child’s ADHD?]

If possible, I’d consult a physician to help you incorporate supplements into your treatment plan. Managing supplements and other integrative treatments requires expertise. It is difficult for a family to do this on their own.

ADHD Supplement: Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Usually given in the form of fish oil, omega-3s are probably the best-researched supplement for ADHD. Numerous studies, including two meta-analyses, have found benefit in the area of hyperactivity, attention, or impulsivity.

[Get This Free Resource: Everyday Foods Filled with Omega-3s]

Finding the best omega 3 supplement is a different story. Despite all the studies on omega-3s, questions remain about the optimal dose and how to give it. The important omega-3 fatty acids are EPA and DHA, which are listed on most product labels. I recommend a total of 1,000 mg. of EPA plus DHA (add the two together) for smaller children, 2,000 mg. for adolescents, and 1,500 mg. for those in between. There should be 1.5 to 2 times as much EPA as DHA. 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.

A related supplement is phosphatidylserine. This is a type of molecule derived from fatty acids that plays an important role in cell signaling. A couple of small studies indicate it might be helpful for ADHD. My clinical experience is that the benefits have not been impressive. It can be taken on its own or in conjunction with a fish oil supplement.

ADHD Supplement: Zinc

I recommend zinc for children with ADHD. The mineral is not as well researched as omega-3s and iron, but there is some positive research. 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. Zinc levels can be measured in the blood, but it is safe to give 20-25 mg. of zinc daily to your child without first doing a blood test.

ADHD Supplement: Vitamin D

Many American children have abnormally low levels of 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. There are no studies showing that giving vitamin D to children with ADHD improves their symptoms. Nevertheless, I would check vitamin D levels and supplement if the levels are low or even borderline low.

ADHD Supplement: Iron

Low levels of the 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 with supplemental iron can improve ADHD symptoms.

Before giving an iron supplement to your child, it is important to measure the iron levels in your child’s blood. When doctors measure these in children, they test for hemoglobin and hematocrit — the level of iron in red blood cells. These readings are usually normal in children with ADHD. I recommend that doctors also check the ferritin level, which measures circulating iron. This is often low, or borderline low, in kids with ADHD. One study showed that the average ferritin level in ADHD children was 22 compared with 44 in non-ADHD children.

I recommend supplementing with iron if a child has a ferritin level under 30. It is important to use a chelated iron product, which reduces the problem of constipation or stomachaches. I usually begin with 30-40 mg. of elemental iron a day, and measure ferritin levels again in three to six months.

Multivitamin/Multimineral for ADHD

It is important that children with ADHD have adequate amounts of a wide range of vitamins and minerals, but until recently, there has been little research suggesting that taking a multivitamin/multimineral was helpful for ADHD. Research indicates that a specific multivitamin/multimineral combination is effective for kids who have ADHD and emotional dysregulation, often displayed by oppositional children.

Daily Essential Nutrients is made by Hardy Nutritionals. In one study, the micronutrients in this formulation reduced impairment and improved inattention, emotional regulation, and aggression. DEN did not improve hyperactive/impulsive symptoms. The downside is that it is expensive, and a child has to take six pills a day. It’s possible that other multivitamins have similar effects, but they have not been well-studied.

ADHD Supplement: Magnesium

This mineral won’t directly improve attention, but it 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. A child can safely take 100-300 mg. of elemental magnesium twice daily in the form of magnesium glycinate, citrate, or chelate. The citrate form tends to lead to loose stools.

ADHD Supplement: Inositol

Inositol is found in very small amounts in many foods. In concentrated doses, it helps to counter agitation and anxiety. I recommend 12-18 grams a day divided into two or three doses for adults. The dose for kids would be calculated based on their mass.

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. A recent double-blind randomized study looked at adding ginkgo to a stimulant that children were already taking. Some children took ginkgo plus a stimulant, while others took a placebo and a stimulant. Those who took the ginkgo had a 35 percent better response rate in terms of improving attention. It had no effect on hyperactivity or impulsivity. I use 60 mg., twice a day, for children.

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 issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association. View the study abstract.

The ABCs of ADHD Supplements

Among the many questions parents ask me when thinking about natural supplements for ADHD are: How can supplements help? Are they a substitute for ADHD medication, or can they be used together? How long do they take to work? Can they have side effects?

How do supplements improve attention, impulsivity, or hyperactivity? It is helpful to understand how supplements are researched. The most common method is to give either the supplement being studied or a placebo to a person, and see if ADHD symptoms improve. Researchers measure this by looking at ADHD surveys or checklists, filled out by teachers and parents. In most cases, the research shows improvements in attention and focus, hyperactivity, or impulsivity, or all of them. It is hard to predict the effect any single supplement will have on a child.
Will supplements improve symptoms as much as ADHD medication? For the most part, no. ADHD-friendly supplements are helpful, but they do not have the immediate and powerful effect on ADHD symptoms that medication does. It is hard to quantify the effectiveness of these supplements compared to medication. It is worth noting that supplements in general have far fewer side effects than medication, and less potential for severe side effects. I use supplements as part of an integrative treatment plan that includes interventions related to school, parenting, sleep, and exercise.
How long will it take to see results after starting a supplement? This varies, depending on the supplement and the child. Some families have told me that they saw improvement within days of starting fish oil; other families didn’t see any improvement after a month. I recommend waiting a few months before deciding whether or not supplements are helpful.
Do supplements have side effects? Some supplements have side effects, but they are milder and less common than the side effects of ADHD stimulants. Iron, for instance, may cause constipation or abdominal pain. It is important to notice any symptoms that occur after starting one or more supplements and consult with your physician.

[Free Resource Here: Guide to Natural ADHD Treatment Options]

Sandy Newmark, M.D., is a member of the ADDitude ADHD Medical Review Panel.

How to Treat ADHD in Children: Next Questions

What ADHD medications are used to treat children?
Is ADHD medication right for my child?
What are common side effects associated with ADHD medication?
What natural treatments help kids with ADHD?
- What are the most effective natural ADHD treatments for kids?
- What foods can help control ADHD symptoms?
- What vitamins and supplements should my child take?
- Does brain training help with ADHD?
- How much and what type of exercise helps kids with ADHD?
- What types of therapy help patients with ADHD?
What if the medication stops working?
How can I find an ADHD specialist near me?

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Augment ADD Treatment with Medication

A healthy diet is one way to treat adhd without medication.

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Do Natural Remedies for ADHD Work?

Medication is a valuable tool for managing the core symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). For those people who do not want to take the medication route behavioral therapy, nutrition and lifestyle changes, and/or brain training, among other natural therapies designed to improve focus and impulsivity may help alleviate some ADHD symptoms.

The fact remains: Between 80%-85% of patients with ADHD experience a positive response to methylphenidate and/or amphetamine — the two main classes of stimulant medication. Still, the widely-cited Multi-Modal MTA Cooperative Group Study¹ concluded that medication combined with behavior therapy is the optimal treatment of ADHD in school-age children. Here, we discuss the natural treatments used by many individuals with ADHD to augment medication.

[People Also Ask: Is ADHD Medication Right for My Child?]

¹ The MTA Cooperative Group. A 14-Month Randomized Clinical Trial of Treatment Strategies for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. Arch Gen Psychiatry. 1999;56(12):1073–1086. doi:10.1001/archpsyc.56.12.1073

If you want to treat adhd without medication you must be open to other options such as excerise and a healthy diet.

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Treatment for ADHD: Overview

"There's no way to predict in advance if a child or an adult will be helped by any individual ADHD treatment, even medication," says Duke University's David Rabiner, Ph. D. His advice? It is critical to monitor your ADHD symptoms (and those of your child) to know what's working — and to be open to a variety of changes in nutrition, exercise, sleep habits, and more.

Many experts recommend keeping a symptom log to track improvements, setbacks, and side effects on a daily basis. This can help to pinpoint the areas of greatest need and, when shared with a medical professional, may suggest new strategies or treatment approaches.

[Free Download: What to Eat (and Avoid) for Improved ADHD Symptoms]

A child drawing as part of his behavior threapy approach to treating adhd without medication.

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Behavioral Therapy for ADHD

Behavioral therapy for ADHD is a structured discipline strategy that aims to teach children new ways of behaving by rewarding desired behavior, such as following directions, and eliminating undesired actions, such as losing homework. The American Psychological Association says that behavior therapy should be the first line of treatment for children with ADHD under five. It can be effective for older children as well.

New research, additionally, shows that behavioral parent training (BPT)—which teaches parents skills for effective, productive interactions with their ADHD children— reduces parental stress and instances of non-compliance. Popular BPT programs like Incredible Years and Triple-P typically span 12 to 20 sessions, each of which focuses on teaching parents new, specific techniques for addressing problem behaviors. The ultimate goal of these programs is to strengthen the parent-child relationship while teaching strategies for long-term behavior improvement.

Omega 3 fatty acids from these fish can help some people with adhd manage their symptoms without medication.

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Omega-3 Fatty Acids for ADHD

The omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil are important in brain and nerve cell function. The body cannot make omega-3 fatty acids by itself, so people have to get them through food, supplements, and vitamins. There are two types of omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil, EPA and DHA. The best supplements have two or three times more EPA than DHA.

[Free Download: Fish Oil Treatments for ADHD Symptoms]

While the benefits of omega-3 fatty acids are clear, evidence of their role in treating ADHD symptoms is currently inconclusive, according to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. A 2018 review¹ of several studies involving children with ADHD undergoing omega-3 treatment, for example, found some evidence to support the role of the nutrient in ADHD treatment, while a similar review in 2017² found otherwise.

¹ Chang, JP., Su, KP., Mondelli, V., Pariante, CM. Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids in Youths with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Clinical Trials and Biological Studies. Neuropsychopharmacology. July 25, 2019. Doi: 10.1038/npp.2017.160

² Catala-Lopez, F. , Hutton, B., Nunez-Beltran, A., Page, MJ., et. al. The pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in children and adolescents: A systematic review with network meta-analyses of randomised trials. PLoS ONE 12(7): e0180355. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0180355

One approach to treating adhd without medication is cognitive behavioral therapy.

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Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for ADHD

CBT aims to change irrational or negative thought patterns that interfere with staying on task or getting things done — two obstacles for individuals with ADHD. For a person with ADHD who thinks, "This has to be perfect or it's no good" or "I never do anything right," CBT challenges the truth of those thoughts by getting the patient to examine the evidence.

Some research supports the assertion that CBT can help adults better address their ADHD-related challenges. However, some in the scientific community would like to see more rigorous research conducted with carefully constructed controls. In its 2010 report¹ titled, “Current Status of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Adults Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder,” researchers from Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School wrote: “The conceptual and empirical basis for CBT approaches in adult ADHD is growing and suggests that targeted, skills-based interventions have a role in effectively treating this disorder, however… randomized controlled trials with active control groups are needed and intervention packages must be tested across multiple trials by more than one research group.”

¹ Knouse, LE., Safren, SA., Current status of cognitive behavioral therapy for adult attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. Psychiatric Clinics of North America. September 2010. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.psc.2010.04.001

Milk, eggs, and nuts are all high in protein — a key ingredient in a healthy ADHD diet for kids.

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Protein for ADD and ADHD

An ADHD diet rich in proper nutrition is a powerful tool for managing ADHD symptoms. Studies by Massachusetts Institute of Technology neuroscientist Richard Wurtman,Ph.D.¹, and others have shown that protein triggers neurotransmitters responsible for inducing alertness while carbohydrates trigger drowsiness. Protein also prevents surges in blood sugar that may increase hyperactivity. High-fiber foods such as fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and legumes can help stabilize energy levels. If you or your child is taking a stimulant medication, a low-fat breakfast will maximize its effectiveness. Fats can cause the body to absorb the medication more slowly, delaying the drug’s effectiveness.

Depending on their age, children need between 24 to 30 grams of protein a day. Adults need 45 to 70 grams. Many nutritionists recommend starting the day with a breakfast comprising a balance of complex carbohydrates and protein such as eggs with whole wheat toast or whole grain pancakes with yogurt.

¹ Wurtman, Richard J. “Nutrients That Modify Brain Function.” Scientific American, vol. 246, no. 4, 1982, pp. 50–59., doi:10.1038/scientificamerican0482-50.

Several key vitamins and minerals are key to producing and regulating neurotransmitter levels in the brain, especially when a child or adult is deficient in one of them. Vitamin C is a building block of neurotransmitters, while iron and vitamin B6 increase dopamine levels. Zinc regulates dopamine, and may help the stimulant medication methylphenidate work more effectively.

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Iron, Zinc, and Vitamins C and B6 for ADHD

Several ADHD vitamins and minerals are key to producing and regulating neurotransmitter levels in the brain, especially when a child or adult is deficient in one of them. Vitamin C is a building block of neurotransmitters, while iron and vitamin B6 increase dopamine levels. Zinc regulates dopamine, and may help treat ADHD symptoms in some children when used with conventional medication and treatments. ¹

[Free Guide: The Best Food for ADHD Symptoms]

One small study² showed ferritin levels (a measure of iron stores) to be low in 84% of children with ADHD, compared to 18% of a control group. Low iron levels — and low zinc levels, as well — correlate with severe ADHD, however, patients should not begin using supplements without the supervision and direction of their doctor.

¹ Akhondzadeh, Shahin. “Zinc Sulfate as an Adjunct to Methylphenidate for the Treatment of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in Children: A Double Blind and Randomized Trial.” BMC Psychiatry, vol. 4, no. 9, 2004, doi:10.1186/isrctn64132371.

² Konofal, Eric, Michel Lecendreux, Isabelle Arnulf, and Marie-Christine Mouren. “Iron Deficiency in Children With Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder.”Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine, vol. 158, no. 12, 2004, pp. 1113.

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Exercise for ADHD

Exercise helps the ADHD brain function more effectively and efficiently. One well-known benefit of exercise is an increase in endorphins, which can improve mood. Exercise also elevates the brain’s levels of dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin, which increases focus and attention.

Studies have shown¹ that short-term aerobic exercise, including yoga, has positive effects on attention, hyperactivity, impulsivity, executive function, and other ADHD symptoms. Walking for 30 minutes four times a week will also do the trick, and skill-based exercises like martial arts or ballet are especially effective for those with ADHD.

¹ Cerrillo-Urbina, A., García-Hermoso, A., & Sánchez-López, M., et.al. The effects of physical exercise in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized control trials: Exercise and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Child Care Health and Development. 2015. doi: 10.1111/cch.12255

Brain training programs can help treat adhd without medication by improving working memory.

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Brain-Training Programs for ADHD

Brain training for ADHD is growing in popularity and availability. Programs can be found for smartphones, computers, tablets, and beyond. Various brain training systems claim to improve common executive functioning challenges among people with ADHD, such as attention, impulsivity, and working memory. Many of the programs have layouts that look and feel like video games but are designed to exercise these specific brain functions.

Programs generally fall under neurofeedback training — which aims to change physiological activity by monitoring brain waves — and cognitive training, which focuses on improving specific brain skills like problem-solving and reading comprehension mainly through games and other exercises.

Whether brain training definitively works to improve ADHD symptoms, however, is still being researched. Some studies have demonstrated improved brain functioning in users. Critics, however, question how much users are actually benefitting. “Existing research does suggest that neurofeedback can result in improved attention, diminished hyperactivity, and enhanced executive functions, including working memory, for some patients,” said David Rabiner, Ph.D., and Ed Hamlin, Ph.D., in a 2017 ADDitude webinar. “However, some of the most important researchers in the ADHD field would argue that the efficacy of neurofeedback for ADHD has not been conclusively established. The bottom line is that research support for both stimulant medication therapy and behavior therapy is stronger than it is for neurofeedback at the moment.”

One brain training program, Play Attention, bills itself as a learning system that uses both neurofeedback and cognitive training to help users boost focus, refine memory skills, ignore distractions, and finish tasks. A series¹ of² randomized, controlled studies by Tufts University School of Medicine found that its users showed greater improvements in attention, hyperactivity, and executive functioning than students who used other programs.

[Free Webinar: The Right Way to Train Your Brain With Games and Apps]

¹Steiner, Naomi J., et al. “Computer-Based Attention Training in the Schools for Children With Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: A Preliminary Trial.” Clinical Pediatrics, vol. 50, no. 7, 10 May 2011, pp. 615–622., doi:10.1177/0009922810397887.

² Steiner, Naomi J., et al. “Neurofeedback and Cognitive Attention Training for Children with Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in Schools.” Journal of Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics, vol. 35, no. 1, Jan. 2014, pp. 18–27., doi:10.1097/dbp.0000000000000009.

Spending time every day in the sunlight may also improve your plan to treat adhd without medication.

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Green Time for ADHD

Green time is especially effective in helping kids recover from attention fatigue, which occurs after a long school day. Gardening, biking to school, and walking the dog in the park are all good ways to incorporate green time into the day.

Neurofeedback is a high tech approach to treating adhd without medication.

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Neurofeedback for ADHD

Neurofeedback is a high-tech way, which claims to ease ADHD symptoms. During a session, the patient dons an electrode-lined cap and is asked to perform a complex cognitive task. The aim is to teach patients to produce brain-wave patterns associated with focus. Sessions are brief (30 minutes) and painless, but expensive. A course of treatment can range from $2,000 to $5,000.

Neurofeedback’s efficacy in treating ADHD symptoms is not conclusive, with multiple studies and reviews revealing opposing or weak evidence for the treatment.

[ADHD Directory: Find an ADHD Specialist or Clinic Near You]

A woman meditating, which is a good way to treat adhd without medication.

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Mindfulness Meditation for ADHD

Mindful meditation for ADHD is attention/awareness training that helps manage stress, develop positive emotions, and strengthen self-regulation skills. It involves silent meditation and becoming more aware during daily activities. In other words, you stay "in the moment" as much as possible. Researchers wrote in a 2015 review¹ of multiple, similar studies that mindfulness provides “promising preliminary support for its efficacy” in treating ADHD symptoms. More research, however, is needed to definitively prove its effectiveness.

How to Treat ADHD in Children: Next Questions

What ADHD medications are used to treat children?
Is ADHD medication right for my child?
What are common side effects associated with ADHD medication?
What natural treatments help kids with ADHD?
- What are the most effective natural ADHD treatments for kids?
- What foods can help control ADHD symptoms?
- What vitamins and supplements should my child take?
- Does brain training help with ADHD?
- How much and what type of exercise helps kids with ADHD?
- What types of therapy help patients with ADHD?
What if the medication stops working?
How can I find an ADHD specialist near me?

¹ Mitchell, J. T., Zylowska, L., & Kollins, S. H. (2015). Mindfulness Meditation Training for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder in Adulthood: Current Empirical Support, Treatment Overview, and Future Directions. Cognitive and behavioral practice, 22(2), 172–191. doi:10.1016/j.cbpra.2014.10.002

Can children take natural supplements for ADHD? Child health experts weigh in 90,001 90,002 ADHD and ADD are neurological and behavioral disorders that cause problems with concentration, impulsivity and excess energy. Children with ADHD find it difficult to sit still and tend to be more disruptive than children with ADD. ADHD begins at age 7 and may continue into adolescence or adulthood.

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According to the National Institute of Mental Health, 9% of American children aged 13-18 have ADHD, and the number of cases is on the rise. A 2017 study shows that sleep deprivation, circadian rhythm disturbances, and disrupted sleep breathing may contribute to ADHD symptoms.

ADHD experts seem to agree that natural supplements can have a marked positive effect on ADHD symptoms.

Source: Makingtherapyfun.com

Dr. Josh Ax is a licensed chiropractor who is also a certified natural medicine doctor and clinical nutritionist. Dr. Ax turned his passion for healthy eating and lifestyle into his career when he opened the Functional Medicine Center in Nashville, which is now one of the most famous clinics in the world. More than 17 million people visit his website every month and today his website is considered the world's best natural health website.

In his paper, Dr. Aks pointed to some international studies that show a genetic link with ADHD. In her work with patients, Dr. Ax believes that additional causes of ADHD are environmental factors and dietary problems that increase the risk of developing ADHD and exacerbate symptoms. Dr. Ax is particularly concerned about studies that have found many side effects from common medications for children with ADHD, such as Adderall and Ritalin. Side effects can be serious and include:

In keeping with his philosophy of healthy eating and living, Dr. Ax believes that parents can help their children improve ADHD symptoms by eliminating certain foods from their diet, adding other foods to their diet, and giving children natural supplements. Dr. Aks points out five key supplements for reducing ADHD symptoms in children. These are fish oil, vitamin B complex, multi-mineral supplement, probiotics and GABA.

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Dr. Ax recommends taking 1,000 milligrams of fish oil daily, noting that the EPA/DHA in fish oil is critical for brain function and acts as an anti-inflammatory agent. Fish oil has been shown to reduce ADHD symptoms and improve learning. Children with ADHD benefit from taking 50 milligrams of B vitamins to help the brain release serotonin, especially vitamin B6. Dr. Aks also recommends taking a multi-mineral supplement twice a day that includes 5 milligrams of zinc, 250 milligrams of magnesium, and 500 milligrams of calcium to help relax the nervous system. ADHD can disrupt the digestive system, which is why Dr. Aks recommends taking quality probiotics daily. Finally, Dr. Aks recommends taking 250 milligrams of GABA twice a day, which is a calming amino acid; although he cautions against reconsidering GABA supplementation with your doctor because it may interact with other medications.

Harvard Medical School Study on Natural Supplements for Children with ADHD

Harvard Medical School has been researching and evaluating studies of natural supplements for ADHD and depression over the years. Their researchers concluded that there is no diet that, on its own, will improve the thinking and behavior of children with ADHD.

On the other hand, researchers believe that nutritional supplements, artificial colors, omega-3 fatty acids, or a lack of important vitamins and minerals may affect the behavior and thinking of some children. The researchers believe that food influences some children's behavior, which reflects the symptoms of ADHD, but they were unable to isolate differences in children to understand why some children are affected and others are not.

Source: unsplash.com

The Feingold Diet states that processed foods and certain fruits and vegetables are to blame for ADHD symptoms in children, and that the diet works well as an adjunct to other treatments and supports. Harvard researchers have found no evidence that the Feingold diet reduces ADHD symptoms and are unsure if it helps.

Little research has been done over the past decades on the effects of food coloring, artificial flavors, and other additives on food preservation, but the results have proven of no value.

The six-week British study involved 153 preschool children and 144 elementary school children, where they studied the effects of sodium benzoate and artificial food colors. At three points in the study, they gave half of the students a placebo. All children in the study showed higher levels of hyperactivity, regardless of their pre-study hyperactivity.

Columbia and Harvard Universities joined forces in 2004 in a similar meta-analysis study that found that eliminating artificial colors from children's diets was only 33-50% as effective as Ritalin in reducing hyperactivity. The researchers were unable to find any similarities in children more sensitive to artificial food coloring.

Researchers have also studied the relationship between omega-3 fatty acids and ADHD symptoms.

London researcher Dr. Paul Montgomery published a study in the journal Pediatrics, which showed that children who took omega-3 fatty acids significantly improved in behavior, reading and spelling. This makes sense given that omega-3s and omega-6s are essential fatty acids that nourish body cells, improve immunity, and boost heart health.

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More research is needed to evaluate the relationship between ADHD and omega fatty acids.

The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends eating two servings (3.5 ounces) of fish per week. The AHA recommends choosing fish varieties that are high in omega-3 fatty acids, such as "salmon, mackerel, herring, lake trout, sardines, and albacore tuna."

Source: unsplash.com

Micronutrient studies in children have shown similar conflicting results.

To date, researchers have found no evidence that the addition of such vitamin or mineral supplements makes any difference in reducing ADHD symptoms. Harvard researchers warn parents that large doses of vitamins and minerals can be toxic to children.

In light of their findings, Harvard researchers support parents in providing their children with a balanced diet of healthy proteins and limited amounts of saturated fat. In addition, the researchers urge parents to limit their consumption of fast food and encourage their children to exercise regularly.

What doctors say about natural supplements for ADHD and depression

Dr. Sanford Newmark works at the UCSF Osher Center for Integrative Medicine as Medical Director. He is also Program Director for Pediatric Integrative Neurodevelopment. Dr. Newmark specializes in the treatment of children with autism, ADHD and other chronic childhood disorders and conditions. In addition, Dr. Newmark is a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics and Clinical Professor in the Department of Pediatrics at UCSF School of Medicine.

Dr. Newmark takes a conservative approach to ADHD, combining traditional medicine with diet, behavior management, and other complementary therapies before prescribing ADHD medication.

In his recommendations for children with ADHD, Dr. Newmark believes that children with this disorder often have low levels of iron, zinc, and magnesium. He agrees with Dr. Ax that a supplement containing these three minerals, when given to children with ADHD, can significantly improve symptoms. Dr. Newmark notes that one study showed a significant improvement in children with low iron levels after taking multi-ineral supplements. Similarly, Dr. Newmark agrees with Dr. Ax and the Harvard researchers about the benefits of supplementing with omega-3 fatty acids or fish oil for children with ADHD. In fact, he believes that fish oil is good for everyone's overall health, especially for people with ADHD and depression at any age. When asked about replacing fish oil with fish oil, Dr. Newmark confirmed that it is OK to use fish oil; However, children do not need all of the preformed vitamin A found in cod liver oil.

In addition to vitamins and minerals, Dr. Newmark sometimes recommends one of two herbal remedies for ADHD. He believes that Pycnogenol (from European pine bark) may be beneficial for some children. He also likes the herb valerian, which, when combined with lemon balm, can calm some children. The doctor notes that these herbs are difficult to obtain. Although both herbs have a calming effect on children, they do not necessarily increase their ability to concentrate.

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Source: flikcr. com

When asked about how parents should approach ADHD treatment, Dr. Newmark recommends consulting a pediatrician or family physician who has professional experience in treating ADHD. It also recommends that schools conduct a good assessment of learning difficulties. Test results can help parents choose the right course of nutrition, behavior, and school activities to help their child succeed at home, at school, and in life. Dr. Newmark supports treating children for ADHD only when needed, and using natural supplements won't hurt.

In general, Dr. Newmark likes to remind parents that the purpose of life is not to sit still and that parents and teachers feel that expectations can stifle children's wonderful creativity and talent.

When considering the opinions of a physician in natural medicine, a leading faculty of medicine, and a physician specializing in the treatment of ADHD, there is little disagreement and much in common. All three experts agreed that we need more research to fully understand ADHD and how to treat it. All agreed that natural supplements, especially zinc, iron, magnesium, and omega-3 fatty acids, are the best choice for treating ADHD in children, with the least potential for negative side effects.

If you still don't know how best to manage your child's ADHD symptoms, BetterHelp experts will match you with a licensed consultant to help you make the best choices about your child's diet, supplements and exercise plan.

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Acetyl-L-Carnitine - essential for maintenance, protection and recovery

The information in this blog has not been verified by your country's public health authority and is not intended as a diagnosis, treatment, or medical advice. Read more

Acetyl-L-carnitine (ALC or ALCAR) has been investigated as an innovative treatment for depression, cognitive problems, Alzheimer's disease, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), noise-induced hearing loss, acetaminophen overdose (eg Tylenol), hepatic encephalopathy and other diseases.

Acetyl-L-carnitine is a small molecule that does a great job

L-carnitine is an amino acid found mainly in meat and dairy products. After ingestion, L-carnitine can be converted to acetyl-l-carnitine (ALCAR), which enters all parts of the body and easily passes through the blood-brain barrier, participating in vital cellular processes. For example, ALCAR is required for cell membrane function, neurotransmission, essential amino acid metabolism, energy production, and antioxidant defense (Pettegrew et al. new brain cells) in the hippocampus (responsible for emotional memory) and in the prefrontal cortex (responsible for high-level thinking and the formation of emotional responses) (Wang and Pae 2017).

ALCAR is safe - but has few side effects

Although ALCAR is generally safer and has fewer side effects than prescription antidepressants and drugs used for cognitive problems, it does have several drawbacks. First, the effect of taking ALCAR does not occur immediately. The results may appear only after two to four months. Second, many patients need to take multiple tablets, averaging three 500 mg tablets once or twice a day. Thirdly, ALCAR can cause the following side effects: diarrhea, foul-smelling urine, constipation, nausea, and indigestion (digestion problems or stomach pain). Less common side effects are insomnia, agitation, and increased appetite.

Although there have been 10 double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trials of ALCAR for depression, significant improvements have been seen mainly in older patients, patients with dysthymia (chronic mild to moderate depression), and people with medical conditions such as fibromyalgia or cancer (Wang et al. 2014). Many of the earlier studies used outdated methodologies that did not meet modern standards.

However, ALCAR benefits many patients with depression. Perhaps this is due to the positive effects on cell function, energy production and neurotransmission. In addition, older patients may suffer from a condition known as "vascular depression", that is, depression caused by reduced blood flow to areas of the brain responsible for mood and mood-related functions. In such cases, mood, orientation, cognition, memory, and behavior may improve as a result of improved blood supply to the brain (perfusion).

Although ALCAR is not a primary treatment for severe depression, it should be considered in the treatment of patients with dysthymia, possible cerebral vascular insufficiency, fibromyalgia, or intolerance to prescription antidepressants.

How does ALCAR help with cognitive problems and dementia?

Since the 1980s, there have been several studies on the use of ALCAR in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases, including age-related cognitive decline, mild cognitive decline, vascular dementia, and Alzheimer's disease. Based on these studies, it is possible to identify the types of patients who may benefit from ALCAR.

Studies of cognitive decline and dementia have shown that ALCAR is best for patients whose cognitive decline is due to, among other things, cerebrovascular insufficiency. With age, blood circulation in the smallest capillaries deteriorates, and brain cells do not receive the oxygen and nutrients they need. As cells weaken, they become more susceptible to damage or apoptosis (cell death), even as a result of a slight decrease in blood supply, which can be caused by dehydration, heat, surgery, low blood pressure, excessive physical activity, untreated sleep apnea, or traumatic shock.

Signs of possible cerebrovascular insufficiency

Dizziness, short-term confusion, problems with speech or memory, mental retardation, problems with leadership functions (planning, organizing and delegating tasks), sudden weakness or falling may be signs of vascular insufficiency. In addition, cerebrovascular insufficiency can be expressed in the form of changes in behavior, in particular, in the form of apathy (loss of interest), anxiety or depression. Additional risk factors are diabetes, atherosclerosis, and heart disease.

Signs of diffuse vascular insufficiency seen on a brain scan of an elderly patient are so common that they are interpreted as “normal for age”. As a result, doctors often tell these patients that the scan results are “normal. ” However, if such signs are found in a patient with symptoms suggestive of possible vascular insufficiency, the situation and brain scan results should be reassessed. When neurons are struggling to survive, it makes sense to help them by improving the supply of oxygen and vital nutrients, preventing further loss, and in some cases even helping cells recover. Antioxidant protection may also be helpful. ALCARs, nootropics, cerebral vasodilators (blood vessel dilating compounds), nutrients, and adaptogen herbs can improve mitochondrial function, enhance cellular defenses, and promote recovery.

Vascular disease in patients diagnosed with dementia

Pure vascular dementia accounts for no more than 10% of all cases of dementia. However, among all patients with dementia, signs of vascular disease are observed in 75% of patients. Very often, once a patient is diagnosed with dementia or Alzheimer's disease, all other neurological investigations and treatment attempts are abandoned. However, as a rule, these patients are elderly, and they often have some degree of vascular insufficiency, which can be seen on a brain scan. Treating vascular insufficiency with ALCAR and other brain-enhancing agents also makes sense when the primary diagnosis is dementia, as even partial improvement in the condition can significantly change the quality of life of the patient, family, and caregivers.

ALCAR may be used to treat vascular disease-induced cognitive decline (VCI) as demonstrated in a recent double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial (Young et al. 2018). In this study, 56 patients with cognitive decline due to vascular disease who were already taking donepezil (Aricept) were given either 1500 mg of ALC daily or placebo for 28 days. The ALCAR group scored higher on the Montreal Cognitive Assessment compared to the placebo group. However, the results of other brain tests did not differ. The greatest improvements with ALCAR were observed in the areas of attention and language functions.

ALCAR works best when combined with other supplements

Living organisms are so complex that it's not surprising to find that aging cells function better when given a variety of nutrients to support their complex machinery. There is a promising vitamin and nutrient supplement called NF that can improve cognition and other brain functions. NF contains folic acid, B12, vitamin E, S-adenosylmethionine, N-acetylcysteine and acetyl-L-carnitine. In studies involving patients with early, middle, and late stages of Alzheimer's disease, those who received NF performed significantly better on neuropsychiatric parameters such as memory and cognition (Chan et al. 2008; Remington et al. 2009, 2015). Participants in these studies tolerated the drug well. No serious side effects have been reported. But more research is needed to confirm these encouraging findings. Each of the components of this remedy has its own health benefits, with only minor side effects. In people with cerebrovascular insufficiency, a cerebral vasodilator such as picamilon can provide additional perfusion.

ALCAR for noise-induced hearing loss

Just as excess sunlight can cause oxidative damage to the lens and retina of the eye, too much noise can cause oxidative damage to the inner ear, which can contribute to hearing loss. Studies have shown that certain combinations of antioxidants may protect against noise damage (Choi and Choi 2015). Each antioxidant protects a different part of the cells responsible for our hearing. When used together, these antioxidants enhance each other's action. One combination, ALCAR plus folate and vitamin E, significantly reduced cell damage and hearing loss (Dhitavat, et al. 2005) Magnesium and vitamin A are also helpful. Antioxidants were most effective when taken before noise exposure, 4 hours before exposure. started, and their reception continued for 9days after its completion.

ALCAR for Attention Deficit Disorder

Studies on the use of ALCAR for ADHD have produced mixed results, making it difficult to draw firm conclusions. This may be because it is more beneficial in some subtypes of this disorder than in any case of ADHD in general. For example, a re-analysis of negative results from a 16-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled study of 112 children with ADHD found a significant benefit in those who had the attention-deficit form of ADHD, but not in those who had the hyperactive or mixed form of ADHD (Arnold et al. al. 2007). Also, some of the ADHD studies were only six weeks long, which may not have been long enough to see an effect from taking ALCAR.

Established and Potential Benefits

Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALC or ALCAR) continues to be a molecule of great interest to researchers as many important properties have been identified in preclinical studies. Effects on gene activation, transcription, protection of genes involved in methylation, and many other functions that allow one to think about the widest therapeutic application of this molecule. However, further research is needed to determine the strategic combinations of ALCAR with other supplements for cell protective agents throughout the body.

Sources:

Chan A, Paskavitz J, Remington R, Rasmussen S, Shea TB. Efficacy of a vitamin/nutraceutical formulation for early-stage Alzheimer's disease: A 1-year, open label pilot study with a 16-month caregiver extension. Am J Alzheimer's Dis Other Demen 2008; 23:571-85.
Choi SH, Choi CH. Noise-Induced Neural Degeneration and Therapeutic Effect of Antioxidant Drugs. J Audiol Otol. Dec 2015; 19(3):11-119.
Dhitavat S, Ortiz D, Rogers E, Rivera E, Shea TB. Folate, vitamin E, and acetyl-L-carnitine provide synergistic protection against oxidative stress resulting from exposure of human neuroblastoma cells to amyloid-beta. Brain Res. 2005 Nov 9; 1061(2):114-7.
Pettegrew JW, Levine J, McClure RJ. Acetyl-L-carnitine physical-chemical, metabolic, and therapeutic properties: relevance for its mode of action in Alzheimer’s disease and geriatric depression. Mol Psych. 2000; 5:616-632.
Remington R, Chan A, Paskavitz J, Shea TB.
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