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Research
& Resources ADD/ADHD: Behaviors and the Nutritional Connection Phyllis B. Books, DC, DACBNEtiological factors include genetic predisposition, brain injury, chronic middle ear infection, visual or hearing disturbances, trauma, conditions that are medication-induced (such as vaccinations), allergic reactions and sensitivities, or simple lack of proper nutrient intake. But the end result is the same, impaired nutrient utilization, especially proteins needed for normal brain function and production of mood-enhancing neurotransmitters like serotonin (the tension reliever) or dopamine and norepinephrine (increase alertness).2,6,7,10 Due to the serious side effects of conventional pharmaceuticals, many practitioners are turning to natural alternatives to achieve more comprehensive and lasting results.1,3 A landmark study using a sophisticated brain scanning device (PET or positron-emission tomography) shows that hyperactive patients have detectable metabolic abnormalities and an inability to manufacture brain neurotransmitters. Overall brain metabolism was 8% lower, primarily in the premotor cortex and superior prefrontal cortex, which regulate attention and motor coordination. The result is faulty dopamine uptake in the entire neuronal system and a “traffic jam” of incoming and outgoing messages.1,2,8,12 Several recent studies have shown evidence that the core deficit in ADHD is failure to delay or inhibit behavioral responses. As all metabolic systems in the brain are directly linked to nutrient utilization, it becomes clinically apparent that targeted protocols will result in replicable improvements.6,10 A Pervasive problem ADD/ADHD affects over 10% of American school children, more than 25% of American families and 10 times more boys than girls. Toddlers as young as 2 years old are being medicated for the inability to sit still.7,9,10,11 Symptoms can also persist into adulthood, oftentimes with advanced behavioral problems and inattentiveness that are harder to detect because they have been socially modified. Although labeled as having a learning disability, ADD children often exhibit above-average intelligence and are highly creative, but at the same time have behavioral abnormalities that can result in disturbed classroom or family relationships. Parents may also be intensely stressed and need nutritional support for themselves.1,6,10 Children in this category are more often affected by chemical
preservatives, dyes, salicylates and high sugar content in foods. Salicylates
(found in aspirin) are used as additives, but are also found naturally in
almonds, bananas, apples, citrus and tomatoes. Statistics show that children
in the Contaminants such as heavy metals and pharmaceuticals set the stage for brain interference or allergic reactions that lead to undesirable behaviors and hyperactivity. Coenzyme Q10 is an effective detoxifying agent for toxic chemicals and a recommended staple that aids in building new brain tissue, as in pycnogenol or grape seed extract that protects brain cells. Essential fatty acids are not only critical in the formation of chemical precursors that relay brain impulses, but also reduce inflammatory processes that contribute to allergies and their related behavioral problems.3,4,5,10 Determining the deficit The officially accepted symptom profiles adopted by the American Psychiatric Association to categorize this group of learning disorders list a number of diagnostic signposts. Observing 6 out of 9 characteristics in either category is a positive indicator. As there are no substantiating lab tests, identifying these disorders is solely a subjective process of evaluating observed behaviors.6,10 ADD without hyperactivity is distinguished by sloppiness, forgetfulness (loses things), absentmindedness, brain chatter, carelessness, inability to finish tasks, sleep disturbances, procrastination, emotional instability and mood swings. Extended into adulthood, these characteristics translate into failed relationships and chronic lack of career achievement. ADHD on the other hand is identified by temper tantrums, self-destructive tendencies, impatience (especially with waiting), impulsiveness, clumsiness, interrupting others, excessive talking and poor performance in school (despite high intelligence and ability to successfully complete tasks). Adults afflicted with uncorrected ADHD as a child are those who get things done rapidly, but get easily frustrated and lose their tempers. They also have a higher risk of alcoholism. A combined disorder of ADD with ADHD often results in a child with low self-esteem (resulting from shame and confusion), inability to follow rules, poor social skills and a characteristic belief that they are always right.1,4,.6,10 To calm the tendency toward excessive motion and constant brain activity, calcium and magnesium at bedtime aid in reducing agitation, as does the protein supplement GABA (gamma-amino-butyric-acid). Studies have shown that the amino acid GABA reduces hyperactivity, tendencies toward learning disabilities, violent behaviors, epilepsy and mental retardation. For inducing sleep, parents report good results combining GABA with Valerian (a gentle calming herb used as a natural relaxant). Chamomile and wild oats have calming effects on the nervous system, as does skullcap, lavender, rosemary and sage (used by Native American Indians as relaxants).1,6,7,10 Brainier kids Of the 400,000 children now diagnosed with ADD/ADHD, many of the emotional manifestations such as sullenness, uncontrollable crying, temper tantrums, anxiety attacks, depression, lack of concentration, restlessness and aggressiveness can be improved or even reversed with targeted protocols designed for nutritional support.6,7,10 Indications show that protein deficiency is a major contributor. DMAE or dimethyl amino ethanol is a high-powered neurotransmitter that improves behavior and mental concentration within 6 weeks. (Results are so effective one teacher thought the child was taking Ritalin when he was actually on DMAE!). Amino acids act as natural mental stimulants that increase energy production in the brain, improve cognitive function, reduce hyperactivity, improve learning mechanisms, alleviate sleep disorders and reduce mental fatigue. Children, and teenagers especially, who are among the growing number of vegetarians need to pay special attention to protein intake and should consult with a knowledgeable health care professional about their nutritional balance.1,4,7,10 Temper tantrums and sleep disorders are directly related to omega-3 fatty acid deficiencies (common with today’s fast foods).7,9,20 DHA or docosahexonoic acid as an omega-3 from fish oil is vital for learning and visual coordination. Other good sources are evening primrose oil and flax seed. Suspect zinc deficiency if a child is irritable, tearful, sullen, resentful and unable to be soothed by body contact. Low levels of zinc cause hyperactivity or low serotonin, and are common in ADHD cases.1,10 SRRI drugs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) like Zoloft, Paxil and Prozac impact zinc levels and create a vicious cycle of emotional instability.1,3,6 Another basic that can improve mind function is the anti-stress antioxidant, vitamin C. Studies have shown that a dosage increase of 50% raises IQ scores by 3.6 points.10 A well-rounded multivitamin should form the foundation of every child’s daily nutrition and a high potency B Complex, essential for normal nerve and brain function. Low B is linked to bad behavior, which improves when deficiencies are corrected. B12 aids moodiness and memory. Inositol fights depression, compulsive disorders and panic. Niacin or B3 treats psychiatric conditions like Schizophrenia and aids memory retention. Deficits of B3 lead to poor school performance, hyperactivity and inability to form relationships. According to psychiatric studies, B6 is more effective than Ritalin and deficiencies have been linked to autism.2,4,8,10 The Up Side of Depressions One of the most serious threats to the well-being of American youth is the
rise in teenage and childhood depression. According to estimates by the In cases of childhood depression, herbals prove helpful to increase stress
resistance, improve metabolic function and elevate mood. Thus, targeted
herbals represent a safe, long-term alternative to drugs. Herbals both
nourish the nerve tissues and act as natural antidepressants.6,7,9 Quick
acting and readily absorbed, Ginkgo biloba is thought to enhance
neurotransmitter sites by stimulating blood flow. Numerous clinical trials
have confirmed Hypericum perforatum or Children with depression should be on a nutritional regimen of high B-complex, especially B12 that regulates mood. Teens need an additional 400mcg of folic acid (brain food that generates energy) and 2000-3000mg of vitamin C per day to enhance absorption (for younger children cut dosages in half). Depression can result from a deficiency of B6, as can fatigue, irritability and learning difficulties, hearing problems and memory loss. Inadequate protein is behind cravings for sugars and fats (fast foods) and may be another precursor to depression. Sucrose from candy and snacks causes rapid highs and lows in blood sugar that adversely affect mood and lead to chronic irritability and depression, not to mention weight gain and skin problems (themselves a basis for depressed behavior). These hypoglycemic changes impact cortisol levels in the adrenals and lead to the “fight or flight” response, followed by sudden drops in circulating adrenaline which enhances exhaustion and leads to outbursts of anger or aggressiveness. Iron deficiency anemia can lead to depression due to lack of oxygenation in brain tissues, with characteristic whining, irritability, fatigue, lethargy and slow mental processes. As a rule of thumb, children under 6 years of age take 1/4 the adult dosage, ages 6 to 12 take 1/2, from 12 to 17 take 3/4 and over 18 takes the adult level.1,4,7,9,10 Assessing Autism Often linked with ADD in the clinical setting, autism is the third most
common developmental disorder in the The latest controversy is tied to an explosive rise in the number of cases
across the country related to mercury (Hg) used as a carrier in postpartum
and childhood vaccinations. Alarming statistics like the 26% jump in total Recent clinical trials by a pediatrician in It follows that one of the most plausible theories held by medical researchers is that autism can actually be classified as an auto-immune condition. Thus there is scientific substantiation for using immune boosting nutrients including vitamin C, E, and A, CoQ10, colostrum, Omega-3 fatty acids, beta-glucans (stimulates macrophages) and quercetin (prevents reactions to certain foods and allergens). Manganese is a required mineral for proper function of the immune system and works with the B Complex to maintain a feeling of well being. Manganese also controls blood sugar levels, promotes healthy nerve fibers and aids in protein metabolism, all of which are key in attention deficit and behavior. Deficiencies can result in mental confusion, ocular problems, irritability, memory loss, muscle tremors and repetitive movements such as tooth grinding. Autistic children can also be helped by melatonin if insomnia is involved.1,2,9,10 The reign of Ritalin The most frequently prescribed of the mainstream treatments, Ritalin (methylphenadine or methylphenidate) is a class 2 narcotic derived from the Prozac family with street-drug effects like “speed”. Paradoxically, it is both a stimulant and calming agent for the nervous system, used to increase mental focus in hyperactivity. School officials favor it because children on Ritalin act less disruptive in class, and because schools in some districts may be rewarded with grant funding if they promote medication. Although the pro-Ritalin influence is still widespread in the educational setting by instructors and counselors (thus parents may feel pressured), it is actually federally prohibited for teachers to recommend medications for behavioral issues, which is also deterred by many state laws as well.4,10 Physical side effects of Ritalin such as tics and muscle cramps are common. However, even more concerning are the mental/emotional aberrations. As Ritalin is virtually the same as cocaine according to researchers, it can often result in psychotic disorders, and the long-term effects with children are unknown. Derived from a weight loss medication used 40 years ago that was recalled due to widespread abuse, Ritalin sales today top $5 billion a year with over 500,000 prescriptions. A study reported in Child and Adolescent Psychology showed 80% of the Ritalin-treated children still had symptoms 8 years later, and 60% got worse. Side effects can include insomnia, heart palpitations, weight loss, slowed growth and tearfulness or irritability during the initial period.6,7,10 Prescriptive potpourri Perhaps the most disturbing aspect of the attention deficit pharmacopoeia is the mixing of pscyhotherapeutics. Adderall, for example, is gaining in popularity and may have fewer side effects than the common amphetamines Ritalin, Dexadrine and Cycler, but has also been cited for psychotic episodes and homicidal tendencies. Luvox, Zoloft, Prozac and Paxil are SSRI antidepressants (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) with label warnings not to be taken by anyone under 18. Lithium is the medication of choice for bipolar depression, but depletes inositol (a B vitamin that fights depression, compulsive behaviors and panic). Used for treating Schizophrenia, the tranquilizer Thorazin is applied for severe hyperactivity, serious behavioral problems or the manic phase of manic depression. Unfortunately, it also can cause tardive dyskinesia (involuntary muscle spasms of the face and body that may be permanent) and depletes vitamin B2 (stunted growth, nerve problems and mental slowness), CoQ10 and melatonin. Gaining in acceptance for its more convenient once-a-day dosage, Tricyclic antidepressants like Tofranil (Imapramine) or Norpramine can themselves cause sudden learning disabilities, deplete vitamin B2 and lowers the energy-producer, CoQ10. An adult anti-psychotic, Haidol or Haloperidol is also listed as a behavioral modifier for children. This can result in insomnia, depression, and a depletion of vitamin E. Popping a pill may be easy (Ritalin comes in colors so it resembles candy), but at what cost to kids, families and communities (like Columbine, Colorado)?1,3,4,7,10 A healthier outlook Nutritionally speaking, small changes can lead to big results. Experts agree that correction of even subtle variances in nutrient levels exerts a substantial influence on behavior and learning capacity. The late Dr. Lendon Smith, a pediatrician who treated over 6,000 hyperactive children during his distinguished career, reported an 80% improvement rate with dietary and nutritional changes.6,4,7 Helping parents find viable alternatives provides a life-changing service that gives back to children their hope for a more normal future, and offers society a second chance to reclaim its younger generation through wholeness and wellness rather than chemical synthetics. The real drug war may not be fought on the streets. The real “deficit” in ADD/ADHD may well be a “deficit” of sound nutrition, but at least that’s a problem we can fix. References 1. Stevens, Laura J., M.S. 2. O’Mara, Peggy, Editor. Vaccination: The Issue of Our Times.
Mothering Magazine, Inc., 3. Pelton, Ross, R.Ph., and LaValle, James B., R.Ph. The Nutritional Cost
of Prescription Drugs. Morton Publishing, Inc., 4. Hunger, Diana. The Ritalin-Free Child. Consumer Press, 5. The PDR Pocket Guide to Prescription Drugs (Based on the
Physician’s Desk Reference). Simon & Shuster, Inc., 6. Romm, Aviva, C.P.M., A.H.G. ADHD Alternatives. Schoolhouse Road, 7. Martin, 8. O’Mara, Peggy, Editor. Show Us The Science. Mothering Magazine,
Inc., 9. Balch, Phyllis A., C.N.C., and Balch, James F., M.D. Prescription for
Nutritional Healing. Penguin 10. Block, Dr. Mary Ann. No More ADHD, No More Ritalin. The Block System,
Inc., 11 Zand, Janet, O.M.D., Walton, Rachel, R.N., Rountree, Bob, M.D., Smart
Medicine for a Healthier Child. Avery Publishing, Garden City, 12. Autism: A Unique Type of Mercury Poisoning (Abstract). Collaborative contributors: Sallie Bernard; Albert Enayati, B.S., Ch.E., M.S.M.E; Teresa Binstock, Heidi Roger, Lynn Redwood, R.N., M.S.N., C.R.N.P.; and Woody McGinnis, M.D. Cranford, New Jersey, ARC Research, 2000. Inset: An ADHD-specific protocol should include lecithin-derived physphatidyl serine (a phospholipid that improves cognitive ability), chromium nicotinate (mineral regulator of sugar metabolism), octacosanol (wheat-germ derivative that improves oxygen usage) and inositol (B vitamin with calming effects). Additional requirements for amino acids include L-glutamine (brain fuel), tyrosine (precursor to mood-enhancing dopamine), phenylanine (elevates mood and acids memory retention), taurine (treats anxiety) and 5-Hydroxy Tryptophan (precursor to tryptophan and specific to hyperactivity or depression).1,6,7,9 |
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