|
  
|
|
Lifestyle Changes for ADD/ADHD
Exercise is important in developing general well-being, especially for
children and adults with ADD/ADHD, but other lifestyle changes are equally
important. Children with ADD or ADHD often qualify for free services at their
schools and may be eligible to receive special education services under the
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
Parents must communicate effectively with a child’s teacher(s) and receive
daily report cards to coordinate a plan to reward good performance in school.
Summer and Saturday programs at school, special classrooms that use intensive
behavioral modification, and specially trained classroom aides are all a part
of the overall treatment plan for those with ADD or ADHD.
If you suspect that your child may have ADHD or ADD, make an appointment to
see your doctor, psychiatrist, or behavioral pediatrician. You should also
talk to other parents who have ADD/ADHD children but be patient with your
child. Progress may not happen overnight. Emphasize your child’s talents and
feelings of self-worth.
Scientists have actually been able to photograph and pinpoint differences in
the brains of ADHD versus non-ADHD patients. The use of herbal remedies is one
of the important components (along with other lifestyle changes) in changing
one’s lifestyle to alleviate symptoms of ADHD.
In a report released by the Center for Science in the Public Interest in 1999
referred to as “Diet, ADHD, & Behavior: A Quarter-Century of Review”, it was
concluded, based on 17 clinical studies, that food dyes and certain foods can
adversely affect a child’s behavior. A few weeks later, Georgetown Medical
School held a conference, referred to as “ADHD: Causes and Possible
Solutions.” The evidence presented at the conference encourages the use of
nutrition to treat ADHD. Presenters and participants also discussed the
harmful effects of low-level exposure to chemicals, food additives, delayed
hypersensitivity to some foods and the effects of consuming junk foods.
To treat ADD/ADHD, certain lifestyle changes must be accepted including
limiting the intake of artificial flavoring, coloring and other food
additives. It is important to avoid processed sugars and consume as many
natural foods as possible.
The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) has reviewed clinical studies
and reports and has stated that many ADHD children did very well with
behavioral therapy alone. Clearly, the overall consensus is that there are
several methods that can be implemented independently or in conjunction with
other methods to combat ADHD, including lifestyle changes, discipline, diet,
nutrition, medication and/or herbal remedies. Behavior therapy is, however, as
most parents would agree, one of the most difficult alternatives to implement
without other traditional treatment methods.
|
Sitemap
|
| |
|
|
|
