In most cases ADHD is a long-term disorder. Approximately 60% of people who have childhood ADHD carry it into adult life, and many adults have ADHD but are undiagnosed, misdiagnosed, and untreated. Medication is often the most effective form of treatment but many people are not happy taking drugs, or giving them to their ADHD children, and not all doctors are happy about prescribing strong medication either. However, there are things you can do to help your ADHD child that don’t involve pharmaceuticals. Here are some tips to help you manage ADHD naturally.
Healthy and Well-balanced Diet
Avoid giving your child sugary foods. ADHD kids can’t digest sugar properly, and sweet foods can trigger hyperactive behaviour, restlessness, and aggression. Don’t give them sodas and caffeinated drinks as the phosphate content might affect their calcium and magnesium levels, and affect muscle activity. Artificial colourings should also be avoided, as they can make kids hyperactive and aggressive. Instead give them milk to develop stronger bones and a healthy nervous system. Give them foods rich in calcium and magnesium, like green leafy vegetables. Surf the net for the list of foods rich in calcium and magnesium.
Provide your child with a stress-free, worry-free home.
ADHD meltdowns often happen because children feel frustrated but are unable to articulate their emotions. Make sure your home environment is comfortable for your child. Store their toys, books, and belongings in accessible places so they can easily get them – to cut down the risk of tantrums and impulsive actions. ADHD kids can be ill-tempered when they can’t do what they want easily!
Give them lots of space inside and outside the home so they can play freely. Avoid sharp edges and corners on furniture in their play area. Lock away dangerous chemicals that may harm them. Ensure lots of natural light gets into your home. Let them burn off energy, but also give them time in a calm, quiet environment. Soothing music can help too.
Always communicate with your child’s teachers, doctors, and specialists
It may not always feel like it, but the teachers and doctors are on your side really, so do talk to them about your concerns. Look for support for yourself too. Talk to people who are familiar with ADHD. Share experiences, seek advice and exchange tips. Join a local support group, or an online forum. Together, you can find ways to help your children grow up to be happy, healthy and successful
More organized activities and routines to help your child
Keep your child immersed in activities that will help them focus more and get distracted less. Avoid letting them play video games or watch TV for hours at a time. Let them play outside and get plenty of exercise and fresh air. If they are active outside, it helps release endorphins to the brain which makes them feel calmer. When indoors, play puzzle games or building blocks to help them focus on putting things together.
Try natural and herbal remedies
Diet, exercise, and herbal remedies can help your child to manage the symptoms of ADHD. They can learn to control and avoid meltdowns and impulses as they grow older. While medication can be the most effective treatment, some prescription medicines can make children sleepy, irritable, or lethargic. Some natural supplements, such as vitamin B6, magnesium and omega 3 fish oils, might have a beneficial effect on ADHD symptoms. Check with your doctor before giving any supplements though.
Using these tips to manage ADHD naturally will help you if you’re not happy about medication, or you suspect ADHD and want to help your child while you wait for a diagnosis. They’re also not a bad idea for any parent to implement for happy healthy kids!