Treating ADD and/or ADHD is not your school's responsibility, and according to your state's laws and school's policies you may not have to accept a student with such a condition. However, chances are your school has experienced a child with ADD or ADHD.
Perhaps you've had to let parents know you suspect their child has ADD or ADHD. There is no easy way to handle such a situation, but there are resources you can direct them to once a diagnosis has been determined. Here's one*—five foods beneficial to the ADD/ADHD child and five foods to avoid.
5 Foods to Include in Their Diet:
- Essential fatty acids. DHA, an Omega-3 fatty acid, is the key to unlocking an ADHD child's brain. Studies show that children with ADHD often have an EFA deficiency. Flax seeds and nuts are two great sources of EFA's, or you can supplement Omega-3 fatty acids with fish oil capsules.
- Vitamin B complex. Vitamin B has been linked to both improving neural activity and reducing stress. Consult with a doctor before giving any child vitamin B. Two sources, B6 and B3, can have side effects when taken in higher doses than the body can absorb. Natural sources include liver, whole grains, cereals, rice, nuts, milk, eggs, fish, fruits, leafy greens, and soy.
- Protein. Protein evenly sustains energy, which can be a profound key in an ADHD child's learning process. Natural sources of protein are cheese, meats, eggs, yogurts, hummus spreads, and nuts and seeds. You can also supplement protein with powdered shakes or bars, but again, check with your family physican before starting your child on supplements.
- Calcium and magnesium. Both of these vitamins have a calming effect on the central nervous system. Research shows that ADD/ADHD children respond positively to calcium and magnesium supplements. Natural sources include, milk and milk products, broccoli, kale, whole grains, beans, spinach, and peas.
- Trace minerals. The body needs a daily intake of trace minerals (zinc and iron), but only in small amounts. Studies show that ADHD and ADD children have low levels of zinc. Nutritionists recommend supplementing these with a sugar-free multivitamin. Yet once again, it's urged that a doctor prescribe the amount and brand your child should be taking.
5 Foods to Avoid in Their Diet:
- Sugar. Sugar robs the body of vitamins, minerals, and enzymes, increasing hyperactivity by preventing blood sugar levels from remaining stable. This includes artificial sweeteners as well.
- Additives. Artificial foods, dyes, and added chemicals are not great for anyone—they are worse for children with ADHD. Although tempting in their colorful, sugary splendor, they should be avoided.
- Hydrogenated oils. More than encouraging weight gain, hydrogenated oils inhibit healthy nerve function. Opt for healthier alternatives such as canola and olive oil, and avoid foods with trans fats wherever possible.
- Caffeine. Caffeine pulls the minerals out from the bone, interfering with your body's natural balance. Limit the amount of soda, tea, coffee, and chocolate your child consumes to aid in natural nerve function harmony.
- Salt. Among the long list of internal alterations salt can be held responsible for, it can also upset the internal equilibrium and mineral balance. Limit the amount of salty snacks your child consumes and watch for processed foods as they're usually heavy in sodium.
*This information was taken from and based on an article published on MSN, written by Jean Weiss. Click here to read the full story.
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