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Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a condition that is usually diagnosed in childhood and often continues into teenage years or adulthood. If a child has ADHD, they will be unusually hyperactive, display impulsive behaviour and lack of focus, and might have trouble sitting still.
ADHD is a medical condition, and some children or adults may need medication to treat it. Since it relates to brain function, the focus is on a diet that aids the production of neurotransmitters, the chemicals released by the brain to allow cells to communicate.
While some people believe the consumption of too much sugar causes ADHD, that may not be the case. However, it is a good idea to focus on a low-sugar or processed sugar-free diet to avoid obesity and related health problems.
A well-balanced ADHD diet focuses on overall nutrition, supplemented by vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients that you may not be getting in meals. Eliminating foods or ingredients that are likely to worsen your symptoms helps further.
Sugar-Free Diet: Yes Or No?
Focus on balanced sugar-free nutrition, not just a no-sugar diet. The idea behind cutting out sugar is to check the sudden spikes in blood sugar caused by eating processed sugar or simple carbohydrates. It has been observed that inattention is caused by high-sugar diets in some children. Don’t give children beverages or fruity drinks laced with sugar. Sudden blood sugar spike increases impulsivity and hyperactivity.
Balance Your Diet
The rule of the thumb is to avoid sugars and invest in a well-balanced diet. This includes a healthy dose of protein, fruits, complex carbohydrates, and vegetables. Eating whole grains is better than eating processed grains, since the former contains high-fibre content that prevents sudden blood sugar spikes and drops. Complex carbohydrates are healthier than simple carbohydrates (candies, cakes, chocolates, sugary drinks) that also cause sudden sugar surges.
Feed the Neurotransmitters
Eat foods with high levels of protein, B-vitamins, and zinc. The body uses such foods to make neurotransmitters. Zinc, B-vitamins, and iron help with the production of dopamine. Sudden blood sugar spikes can also be prevented by protein intake. It is best to have a meal of complex carbohydrates and proteins for breakfast. In addition to these, foods rich in Omega-3 fatty acids like fish and fish oil are said to improve brain and nerve function.
What to Say No to
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Candy
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Soft drinks
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Flavoured syrups
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Artificial additives
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Sugar and honey
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White rice
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White flour products
To sum it up, ADHD can be treated by a balanced sugar-free diet combined with cognitive therapy, medication, and social therapy.
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FAQs
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Does eliminating sugar help with ADHD?
You can manage ADHD by making simple changes in your diet. This includes avoiding sugary snacks and having a well-balanced diet of protein, complex carbohydrates, fruits, and vegetables.
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What foods should I avoid if I have ADHD?
Avoid foods that cause a sudden surge in blood sugar. Cut down on sugary foods and simple carbohydrates.
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What aggravates ADHD?
ADHD symptoms are often triggered by certain kinds of food, inadequate sleep, stress, and overstimulation.
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What chemicals do ADHD brains lack?
The ADHD brain depicts a poorly-managed dopamine system. The brains produce less dopamine, or the body is unable to use it efficiently.
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How can ADHD be treated?
ADHD in children can be treated by medication, counselling, and behaviour therapy.
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