Attention Deficit and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

The Chiro.Org Blog


Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADD/ADHD) is the most commonly reported childhood behavioral disorder, affecting between 3 and 7% of American children. It is characterized by poor attention span, impulsive behaviors, and hyperactivity in some children. The diagnostic criteria are strictly observational, and there are no objective laboratory tests to confirm that diagnosis. Subjective evaluations of annoying, distracting, or inattentive behavior makes the “diagnosis” of ADD/ADHD speculative at best. [1]

The most common medical “treatment” for this controversial “disease” is prescriptions of Methylphenidate (Ritalin), a Class II controlled and addictive substance. The long–term effects of this drug on children is unknown, but the side–effects, including addiction, are becoming better understood.

What is ADD/ADHD? Although it’s exact “cause” is unknown, major etiologic contributors include adverse responses to food additives, intolerances to foods, sensitivities to environmental chemicals, molds, and fungi, and exposures to neurodevelopmental toxins, such as heavy metals and organohalide pollutants.

Nutrient deficiencies are common in ADD/ADHD. Supplementation with minerals,   B vitamin complex,   flavonoids,   and the omega-3 and omega-6 essential fatty acids have shown promising results, as are reported in the Abstracts Section below.

A wholistic/integrative management program will include supplementation, dietary modification, detoxification, and removal of environmental toxins and toxic cleaners from the home.

You can learn more about the chiropractic approach to management at the:

Chiropractic and ADD/ADHD Page

REFERENCES:

Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in Children: Rationale for Its Integrative Management
Alternative Medicine Review 2000 (Oct); 5 (5): 402–428