Elate Lifestyles LLC

Health Issues Linked to

Attention Deficit Disorder

Description:

ADHD is poor attention span and/or hyperactivity in children. It is one of the most frequently diagnosed childhood psychiatric conditions. Although controversial, ADHD can be inherited and affects 5-10 percent of school-aged children. Signs can be typically seen at age three, but must be seen by age seven to meet the criteria for diagnosis.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder adolescents tend to have poor academic achievement, low self-esteem, anxiety, depression, and difficulty learning proper social behavior. Children with ADHD do not outgrow their inattentiveness, but learn to adapt to their environment as adults. It is easier for them to function effectively in a work environment than a structured school environment. However, if left untreated, the risk for alcohol or substance abuse increases.

Children with fetal alcohol syndrome, lead poisoning, meningitis, or genetic resistance to thyroid hormone have a higher incidence of ADHD. Recent research has indicated that ADHD is caused by abnormalities in neurotransmitters, which affects the nerve impulses in the brain.

ADHD may also be affected by the presence of dysbiotic flora, which destroys probiotics (friendly bacteria) in the intestines. This condition, dysbiosis, is linked to immune function, food sensitivities, and ADHD. This is most likely due to the multiple antibiotic treatments children receive in their first five years without replacing the good intestinal bacteria. A study reported that high levels of antimetabolites were found in the urine of ADHD children, which is consistent with Candida related complex.

Some researchers are also linking a deficiency in essential fatty acids (EFAs) to the cause of Attention Deficit Disorder. EFAs not only affect the development of brain tissue, but also gut permeability. Essential fatty acids are the substrates for prostaglandin synthesis.

--Causes of Attention Deficit Disorder --

Three factors appear to be particularly relevant to learning disabilities: Otitis media (ear infections), nutrient deficiency, heavy metals.

-- The Nutritional Approach --

Foods that have been proven to help with ADHD:

Flax seed/oils, hemp seeds/oils, fatty fish (salmon), a diet rich in vitamins and minerals (whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables and good fats), food high in tryptophan (brown rice, cottage cheese, turkey and soy protein).

Avoid sources of refined sugars and flour.

Nutrients that have been proven to help with ADHD:

Omega 3 and 6 essential fatty acids (flax, hemp, DHA, borage, and evening primrose oils), multivitamin and mineral formulas (most deficiencies are in magnesium, then chromium and zinc), Vitamin B-Complex, GABA, Iron.

Excercises that have been proven to help with ADHD:

Regular and vigorous exercise can be very helpful for the Attention Deficit Disorder adult. Attention Deficit Disorder adults tend to have addictive personalities. Exercise is a good addiction. Aside from the obvious health benefits, regular exercise is also a great way to release steam and quiet the mind. Some studies also link regular exercise to decreased depression -- a condition common with Attention Deficit Disorder adults.