Attention Deficit Disorder

Did you know that Attention Deficit Disorder, or ADD, has been diagnosed in as many as twenty percent of school-age children in the United States?

I had to double-check that when I first read it.

This is unbelievable to me. It didn't exist when I was a kid.

A lot of people are worried that we're actually over-diagnosing our kids with this. But whether or not these kids actually should be diagnosed with a disease, the biggest concern I have is the treatment. Ironically, the drugs most often used to treat ADD are stimulants, like amphetamines. The net result that a lot of parents have shared with me is that their kids are either hyperactive or zombies most of the day. I hope this segment can help a lot of desperate parents.

Even though the role that diet plays is controversial, it shouldn't be. I'm not a doctor, but every parent I've ever spoken to with children who have been diagnosed admit that sugar plays a central role in their kid's diet. Please, transition to the Phase One Diet as quickly as possible, and as best you can, eliminate everything that isn't actually food - things like food additives, preservatives, food dyes, and hormones. Emphasize good fruits and veggies, first prepared in a way that they'll eat, and then as close to raw as possible.

Consider a good multi-nutrient supplement with plenty of minerals. Calcium and magnesium can help calm down the nervous system, and vitamin B6 is also important for normal mental function.

Also, try adding healthy fats to the diet like fish oil, olive oil, and berry seed oils. Depending on their age, either just eat foods with these fats included, and use quality supplements as well. These good fats nourish the entire central nervous system.

If the child is old enough, you could also try an herbal stress formula that includes valerian root. A German study showed that this and other herbs have been used successfully with a number of childhood disorders.

If you need help with the right diet and supplement plan for your children, just give me a call or visit any of the links to web pages above for more information.

I'm Guy Evans, and now you know!