Alternative natural treatments for ADD and ADHD

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or Attention deficit disorder (ADD) is a behavioral condition characterized by a poor attention span and may be accompanied by hyperactivity. ADHD occurs in both children and adults.

Approximately 4 to 6 percent of the US population have ADHD/ADD. One half to two thirds of children with ADHD/ADD will continue to have the disorder as adults. Children with ADHD/ADD often have learning and behavioral difficulties in school. Adults frequently have problems with memory and concentration. Children and adults with ADHD/ADD may also experience motor problems, attention problems, mood disorders, addictions, and/or alienation.

A recent review found that over 2 million children with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are being treated with stimulant medications. This is a cause for concern due to the possible association of drug stimulants with growth suppression, and many ADHD children don't respond to stimulant drugs or can't tolerate their side effects.

The review recommended alternative therapies including nutritional supplementation as an effective addition to ADHD treatment. Supplementation with healing nutrients such as huperzine A, DMAE, magnesium, and vitamin B6 can help improve ADHD symptoms in children and adults.

In Home Remedies - Supplements and Diet

There are several ADD natural remedies, including change in diet, routines and checklists, and natural supplements. A few examples of foods you should stay away from are all forms of refined sugar (simple carbohydrates) and any products that contain it. Also eliminate junk food and all foods that contain artificial colors, flavorings, monosodium glutamate (MSG), yeast, or preservatives. Avoid carbonated beverages, which contain large amounts of phosphates.

Phosphate additives may be responsible for hyperkinesis (exaggerated muscle activity). High levels of phosphorus and very low calcium and magnesium levels (which can be revealed through a hair analysis) can indicate a potential for hyperactivity and seizures. Meat and fat also are high in phosphorus.

Routines are important for children with ADD/ADHD so they know what is expected of them. Checklists are a good way of letting the child know what is in store for them for the day. This will help them be prepared for what is happening next and may prevent breakdowns. Once a child completes the checklist they should be rewarded in some way to show them they are doing a good job.

Herbal Remedy for ADHD

Listol is an alternative all natural supplement designed to work with the body to help with ADD/ADHD. Listol replenishes nutrients that are lacking and causing the symptoms of ADD/ADHD. Unlike prescribed medications for the treatment of ADD/ADHD Listol does not have the unwanted side effects. Below is a list of ingredients in Listol.

Vitamin B6 - Pyridoxine is essential for proper function of the nervous system.
Iron - Research indicates that iron deficiency is associated with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder in children.
Magnesium - In a study of 116 children with ADHD magnesium deficiency was observed in 95% of the subjects. Analysis of the data showed a correlation between levels of magnesium and the quotient of development to freedom from distractibility.
Zinc - A study conducted to explore the relationship of zinc nutrition to the severity of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) symptoms in a middle-class American sample with well-diagnosed ADHD showed that serum zinc levels correlated at with parent-teacher-rated inattention.
Copper - When supplementing with zinc it is always important to take additional copper to prevent deficiency of this trace mineral, as zinc and copper compete for absorption. Furthermore, copper levels are observed to be lower in children with hyperactivity.
Phosphatidylserine - An essential phospholipid, phosphatidylserine can ameliorate symptoms of ADHD.
Di-Methyl Glycine - Abnormal glucose metabolism is a proposed contributor to ADHD and treatment with dimethyl glycine may improve symptoms of hypoglycemia, which can occur in some patients with ADHD.
Glycine - Glycine is a basic amino acid which is vital for proper nervous system function.
GABA Powder - GABA pathways in the brain appear to play a role in certain cognitive disorders like ADHD.
DMAE Bitartatrate - DMAE is a precursor for phosphatidylcholine, an important phospholipid in the brain. Supplementation with DMAE has demonstrated improvements in hyperkinesis, an older term for ADHD.
Huperzine A Extract - This natural compound is drawing much attention for its effects on cognitive function, enhancing memory and treating cognitive deficits.

To learn more about Listol Click Here. If you are interested in reviewing other ADHD products, read this page about Listol, Synaptol, and Vaxa Attend.