Despite the fact that it is not possible to make a diagnosis of ADHA based on pathologic criteria, it may be diagnosed based upon behavioral criteria available in DSM-IV.

June’s second grade teacher had been struggling with what exactly to do with a student that just can’t seem to pay attention long enough to sit still and learn. She was resistant to seeking formal assessment from a doctor who would, in all likelihood, suggest she be put on medication for ADHD.

Many teachers and parents report that children on stimulant drugs like Ritalin have an easier time concentrating on tasks and are better behaved. However, there are many side effects reported by doctors, such as decreased appetite, insomnia, increased anxiety and/or irritability. Some children report mild stomachaches or headaches.

June has not been tested and is not on medication, but her teacher reports that she is doing much better. The magic cure? Tough Love. In combination with strict rules with consistent responses, June’s teacher also praises her helping to boost her self-esteem. Many ADHD children thrive under strict behavior management in which they are taught “better” responses through a series of rewards. Behavioral Therapy (BT) helps a child directly change his or her thinking and coping, thus leading to changes in behavior. Children like June who display ADHD symptoms also respond well to help in organizing tasks and schoolwork.

Changes in diet and supplements have also had a positive effect on many children. ADHD children tend to be dificent in certain major nutrients like the fatty acid DHA, which secures the signaling devices for cell communication, and essential amino acids needed for proper brain functioning. ADHD children also tend to be deficient in zinc, magnesium, calcium and other nutrients that deplete neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine and GABA.

Normal diets in this day and age rarely provide enough of the raw materials necessary to manufacture neurotransmitters necessary for normal brain functioning. Stress, worry, pollution and emotional ups and downs further deplete neurotransmitters.

Eliminate or decrease the intake of these foods:

• Refined sugar and artificial sweeteners like aspartame and saccharin.

• Caffeine.

• Food dyes, preservatives and additives. There have been remarkable studies showing the negative effect of these on ADHD children.

• Fried and processed foods. Fried and processed foods tend to have the “wrong” kinds of fats (trans fatty acids), which lack the amino acids they need. They are also low in nutrients, which over time depletes neurotransmitters.

Increase the intake of these foods:

• Serotonin is found in milk, turkey, ham and cheese. Dopamine is found in shellfish, soy, fowl and lean beef. GABA is found in sesame and sunflower seeds.

• DHA is found in micro algae, seaweed, flaxseed oil, cold-water fish and animal products.

Supplements:

When taking single supplements, it is important to take a multi-vitamin with it since certain vitamins, minerals and amino acids have to work together for best results. Some companies also sell “ADHD” supplements, containing a combination of these nutrients.

• Zinc for immune system support.

• Magnesium for a calming effect

• Amino Acids

• GABA (Gamma-aminobutyric acid) has been shown to reduce hyperactivity.
  B6, calcium, magnesium and folic acid are recommended to increase the production of a wide spectrum of neurotransmitters

Herbal Remedies:

As with any pharmaceutical medication, do not give these to your children without first consulting a licensed health care provider.

• Rescue Remedy has a calming effect.

• Valerian acts as a sedative.

• Ginkgo biloba increases blood circulation to the brain and helps memory.

• Evening primrose oil aids in transmission of nerve impulses and brain function.

Homeopathic Remedies:

• Homeopathic remedies have demonstrated very beneficial effects in many cases of ADHD. Since homeopathic prescribing is quite individualized, it is not possible to give general suggestions for specific homeopathic remedies for this condition.