Alternative ADHD Treatments

One of the most common and difficult challenges facing parents and kids today, ADHD affects nearly one in 10 school-aged children. Its symptoms—inattentiveness, hyperactivity, and impulsive behavior—impair school and social performance. Many children end up on prescription drugs, such as Ritalin, but other side effect-free management options exist.

Try:
Neurofeedback. A new type of biofeedback trains kids to control their brain waves. Mounting evidence shows it’s both helpful and safe, and kids tend to be very good at it. It’s like a video game for the body. The practitioner places electrodes on the child’s scalp, and the child learns to control the brain waves—in real time—by watching them on a computer screen. Find a credentialed professional at the Biofeedback Certification Institute of America.[http://www.naturalsolutionsmag.com/index.cfm/fuseaction/center.article/articleID/14481/subTopicID/152/PractitionersCornerAboutKidsNeurofeedbackand] [http://www.bcia.org/]

Supplements. Vitamins E and C, magnesium, flaxseed and primrose oils, and zinc have all proven effective in decreasing symptoms of ADHD.

Diet and nutrition. One study showed that when kids with ADHD ate a diet free of chemical additives, preservatives, MSG, chocolate, and caffeine, they had fewer behavior problems and less trouble sleeping.

Create a calming environment. Scheduling your son’s meals, bedtime, and waking at the same time every day, will have a calming and stabilizing effect. There’s also evidence that children feed off their parents�anxiety, so learning to slow things down yourself can help their condition.