There is no clear scientific proof that the presence of ADHD is related to diet and nutritional deficiencies. Still, some people claim that specific eating habits can help improve attention span. There are various natural remedies for ADHD that can be useful to increase focus and decrease hyperactivity. However, there are some food items that can worsen symptoms, which makes it essential to take care of what a person eats and avoids when they are managing ADHD.
There is no proper standard diet recommended for ADHD patients. Data on what should and shouldn’t be consumed by people with ADHD is quite limited. There are various claims regarding diet habits and natural remedies for ADHD that will be useful to people with this condition. However, most health experts agree that particular dietary habits can help with ADHD and its symptoms.
Health experts say that the food that is excellent for the brain is most likely to help improve the condition of ADHD. There are plenty of such food items that work as natural remedies for ADHD.
Here are the changes you should make to your diet if you have ADHD:
1. Have more complex carbohydrates
Nutritionists suggest that complex carbohydrates are beneficial for patients with ADHD. You should eat more fruits and vegetables that consist of complex carbohydrates. Food items such as pears, tangerines, oranges, kiwi, grapefruit, and apples are great sources. It is believed that if you have these food items as your evening snack, you might be able to sleep better at night.
2. Include omega-3 fatty acids
Omega-3 fatty acids have shown positive changes in ADHD patients. Therefore, if you are non-vegetarian, you should include salmon, tuna, and other similar cold-water fish in your diet. These will provide you with an ample amount of omega-3 fatty acids.
Vegetarians can have other sources of omega-3 such as Brazil nuts and walnuts. In addition, you should use canola oil and olive oil in the preparation of your meals. You can take an omega-3 fatty acid supplement as well. Experts even claim that these help in the better development of the brain.
3. Increase protein intake
High-protein meals can help in improving the concentration of ADHD patients. Health experts say that a high-protein diet also makes ADHD medications work better and for a longer time. You should include cheese, nuts, beans, meat, and eggs in your diet. These are great sources of protein. The best time to eat these protein-rich food items is morning and afternoon.
4. Nutritional supplements as remedies for ADHD
Some health experts suggest that ADHD patients should take vitamin and mineral supplements every day. On the other hand, most nutrition experts say that natural remedies for ADHD are sufficient. There is no proof that vitamin and mineral supplements will help deal with ADHD any better. Therefore, it is better to consult with a physician before making any drastic changes to one’s diet.