Is There a Link Between ADHD and Diet?
The governing assumption of an ADHD diet is that the foods and any nutritional supplements ingested can have an effect on symptoms of the disorder. Thus, there are supplement plans, for which certain foods and nutrients are added to the diet, and elimination diets, in which food and nutrients are taken away.
While research is limited, some experts believe that nutrition that targets the brain is ultimately the key to helping control any situation.
Here are seven suggestions for a comprehensive ADHD diet plan. Some of the best choices include lean meat, fish, eggs, nuts, beans and olive oil. All provide wholesome nutrition without much processing, although salted nuts and canned beans should be monitored for excess ingredients.
Those choices break down into seven advisories:
- Eat more protein. Of course, meats are good sources of protein, but so are cheese, eggs, nuts and beans. If consumed in the morning and as mid-afternoon snacks, they may help improve concentration and may work with ADHD medications to help them last longer
- Cut back on simple carbohydrates. Consumption of foods containing corn syrup, candy, sugar, white flour products, white rice and potatoes without skins should be reduced.
- Eat more complex carbohydrates. Vegetables and fruits like pears, apples, oranges, tangerines and kiwi are recommended.
- More omega-3 fatty acids. This nutrient is found in cold-water white fish, including tuna and salmon, as well as walnuts, Brazil nuts, olive oil, and canola oil. There are also omega-3 supplements.