ADD/ADHD

Attention Deficit Disorder/Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADD/ADHD) is usually characterized by an inability to maintain focus or pay attention. People with ADD/ADHD may also exhibit uncontrollable hyperactivity. It is often inherited, but can be caused by environmental factors such as brain injury, high fever, and toxic exposure. Diet, food allergies, metal toxicities, pre-natal fatty acid deficiencies, zinc deficiencies, and zinc-to-copper imbalances can also play a role.

Stimulants are the conventional medicinal treatment for ADD/ADHD. Unfortunately, these pharmaceuticals reduce the overall blood flow to the brain and disturb glucose metabolism. On the other hand, a nutritional approach strives to actually increase academic and social abilities. Also, sugar, food additives, and food colorings should be avoided.

Supplements to treat ADD/ADHD

• American ginseng – Always take with food. Do not take if you are taking a blood thinner.
• B-complex vitamins – Take a multi-vitamin.
• Boron
• Carnitine
• DPA/DHA
• 5-Hydroxy-tryptophan (5-HTP) – Do not take with vitamin B6. Consult your healthcare provider regarding use if you are taking antidepressants. Do not take at the same time as antidepressants or any serotonin-affecting drugs.
• Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) – It is important to maintain the proper ratio of omega-6 fatty acids to omega-3 fatty acids.
• Gingko biloba – Do not take if you are taking a blood thinner. Some name-brand Ginkgo-PS supplements are formulated with the highest quality Ginkgo biloba extract. Ginkgo extract has received most attention for its ability to improve cognitive functioning. Studies have found that it increases blood flow to the brain, improves transmission of nerve signals, and improves memory. The high quality of Ginkgo biloba extract combined with PS gives Ginkgo-PS clear advantages over other ginkgo products on the market.
• Magnesium – Consult healthcare provider for dosage if you have kidney disease. Discontinue use and see your doctor if you experience abdominal pain. Take a lower dose if it causes diarrhea.
• Probiotics – If taking an antibiotic, wait three hours before taking probiotics.
• St. John’s wort – Do not take with antidepressants, indinavir, cyclosporine, theophylline, warfarin, or ethinylestradiol. If you are exposed to the sun, it may cause a skin rash. May lessen effects of birth control.
• Selenium
• Vitamin B9 (folic acid) – High doses can deplete your body of other vitamins in the B complex.
• Vitamin B12 (cobalamin) – High doses can deplete your body of other vitamins in the B complex.
• Zinc