Note:As of the DSM-5, ADD has been removed as a condition, and ADHD has been separated into three categories, including ADHD-HI, ADHD-PI, and combined type. This article discusses supplements that may interact with medications or food or incite an allergy. Consult a doctor before using any supplement.
ADHD is a neurological condition and neurodivergence that can manifest with symptoms like difficulty concentrating, impulsivity, sleep disturbances, and excess energy. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, research shows that 9% of American children ages 13 to 18 have ADHD.
Most children with hyperactivity and impulsive ADHD (ADHD-HI) struggle to sit still. They may also experience more hyperactivity than those with the inattentive type of ADHD (ADHD-PI). Attention disorders typically begin to show around age seven and can affect well-being into adulthood.
A 2017 study indicates that sleep deprivation, circadian rhythm disturbances, and sleep-disordered breathing may contribute to ADHD symptoms. In some cases where these symptoms and others are present, parents of children with ADHD may consider alternative treatments like natural supplements for symptom relief and management.
Dr. Josh Axe is a licensed chiropractor, certified doctor of natural medicine, and clinical nutritionist. He turned his passion for healthy eating and lifestyle into his career when he opened a functional medicine center in Nashville, TN. With over 17 million monthly visitors, his website is considered a leader in holistic mental health, overseen by a medical review board looking for medical accuracy.
Potential side effects of ADHD medications
In his work, Dr. Axe has pointed to some international studies that show a genetic link to ADHD. Although his opinion may differ from that of other doctors and individuals, Dr. Axe is concerned with potential side effects from common medications for children with ADHD. Though medication can benefit children as a treatment option to manage ADHD symptoms, it can also lead to uncomfortable side effects.
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Using natural substances to address ADHD symptoms
In keeping with his philosophy of healthy eating and a healthy lifestyle, Dr. Axe believes that parents can help their children improve ADHD symptoms by eliminating certain foods, adding other foods, and giving children natural supplements. Dr. Axe notes five essential supplements for helping children manage their symptoms, including:
Fish oil supplements
Vitamin B-complex
A multi-mineral supplement
Probiotics
GABA
Dr. Axe recommends children take fish oil daily, noting that the EPA and DHA in fish oil are critical for brain function and act as an anti-inflammatory. Fish oil may reduce some ADHD symptoms and improve learning. Children with ADHD might also benefit from taking B-complex vitamins to help the brain release serotonin. Dr. Axe also recommends taking a multi-mineral supplement twice daily, including zinc, magnesium, and calcium, to control the nervous system. A natural supplement such as a multivitamin can also help avoid an iron deficiency.
ADHD can impact the digestive system, so Dr. Axe recommends a quality probiotic daily to help with food sensitivities. Finally, he recommends taking GABA twice daily; GABA is a calming amino acid. However, he suggests reviewing adding GABA with your child’s doctor because it may interact with other medications.
Research on using natural supplements to treat ADHD
Studies have been conducted over the years on the effects of certain foods and diets on ADHD and its correlated behaviors. Although more research is needed to suggest that a specific diet will alleviate symptoms of ADHD, studies suggest that certain foods and drinks like caffeine, chocolate, and alcohol have distinguishable effects on those with ADHD.
On the other hand, researchers believe some children's behavior and thinking may be affected by food additives, artificial colorings, Omega-3 fatty acids, or deficiencies in essential vitamins and minerals. Researchers believe that foods influence some children's behavior and could mirror ADHD symptoms. Still, they haven't been able to segregate the differences in children to understand why some kids are affected when others aren't.
The Feingold diet claims that processed foods and certain fruits and vegetables are to blame for ADHD symptoms in children and that this diet works well to complement other types of treatment and support. Research has concluded that the Feingold diet may be ineffective and potentially harmful due to severe restrictions. Though ADHD symptoms may be reduced, the Feingold diet could do more harm and lead to vitamin deficiencies in a growing child.
In past decades, studies have been done on the effect of food colorings, artificial colors, artificial flavors, and other additives to aid in food preservation, but the results have varied greatly on a case-to-case basis. A six-week study involving 153 preschool-aged children and 144 students in grade school studied the effects of sodium benzoate and artificial food colorings. They gave half the students a placebo at three points during the study. Some in the study demonstrated a higher level of hyperactivity irrespective of their hyperactivity before the study.
The connection between Omega-3 fatty acids and ADHD
In 2017, The National Centre for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) conducted a study to test the effects of Omega-3 fatty acids on ADHD and found positive and promising conclusions. Although more studies may be valuable in evaluating the connection between ADHD and Omega-3 fatty acids, experiments have shown that Omega-3 acids are promising in their capabilities to ease symptoms of ADHD.
The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends eating two servings per week of fish. AHA advises choosing varieties of fish with high doses of Omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, mackerel, herring, lake trout, sardines, and albacore tuna.
Studies of diet changes in children
Researchers have not found evidence that adding vitamin or mineral supplements to a diet reduces ADHD symptoms. Harvard researchers warn parents that large doses of vitamins or minerals, such as too much iron or heightened zinc levels, can be toxic for children.
Considering their findings, Harvard researchers support parents providing their children with a balanced diet, healthy proteins, and limited saturated fats for optimal health benefits. In addition, researchers encourage parents to limit fast foods and encourage their children to exercise regularly.
Natural supplements for ADHD and depression
Dr. Sanford Newmark is the medical director at the UCSF Osher Center for Integrative Medicine. He also serves as head of the center's Pediatric Integrative Neurodevelopmental Program. Dr. Newmark specializes in supporting autistic children, those with ADHD, and other developmental differences.
Dr. Newmark takes a behavioral and natural approach to treating ADHD by combining a prescribed diet, behavior management strategies, and other alternative treatment options before prescribing medication for ADHD. In making recommendations for children with ADHD, Dr. Newmark considers that children with the condition may be low in iron, zinc, and magnesium. He concurs with Dr. Axe that iron, zinc, and magnesium supplements or a multivitamin containing these three minerals, could improve a child’s behavior and associated ADHD symptoms.
Dr. Newmark agrees with Dr. Axe and Harvard researchers about the benefits of incorporating Omega-3 fatty acids or fish oil into the diets of children with ADHD. He also believes that fish oil benefits everyone's general health, especially for those with ADHD and depression at any age. When asked about substituting cod liver oil for fish oil, Dr. Newmark affirmed that it might be beneficial to use cod liver oil. However, children don't need all the preformed vitamin A that cod liver oil contains.
Alternative recommendations from Dr. Newmark
Beyond looking at vitamins and minerals, Dr. Newmark sometimes recommends one of two herbal remedies for ADHD. He believes that Pycnogenol (from the bark of a European pine tree) can be helpful for some children. He also likes an herb called valerian, which, combined with lemon balm, may offer symptom relief for some children. The doctor notes that these herbs can be difficult to find. While both herbs have a calming effect on children, the herbs won't necessarily increase their ability to concentrate or improve academic performance.
When asked how parents can approach treatments for ADHD, Dr. Newmark recommends seeking a pediatrician or family doctor with professional experience in treating ADHD or with a background in child and adolescent psychopharmacology. He also recommends that schools provide an evaluation for learning disabilities. Testing results may lead parents to valuable nutritional, behavioral, and school interventions to help their child succeed at home, in school, and adult life.
Overall, Dr. Newmark likes to remind parents that the goal in life is not to sit still, and for parents and teachers to hold that expectation may inhibit children's creative and talented capabilities.
If you're confused about managing your child's ADHD symptoms, you might also benefit from contacting an expert. Although many parents are busy and may not have the time to explore counseling in their area, alternative methods, like online therapy, could be a solution. With an online therapist through a platform like BetterHelp, you can discuss ADHD symptoms and management with a professional therapist.
Online therapy may be valuable in treating various symptoms, including family stress and disagreement. An online therapist can also support neurodivergent adults with ADHD or other developmental concerns. When you sign up for a platform, you can choose between phone, video, or live chat sessions according to your preference. You can also specify your goals so your therapist is better able to support you in achieving those therapeutic goals.
If you're still unsure about online therapy, you can review studies examining the effectiveness of these methods. One study found that internet-based therapy could be highly effective for adults living with ADHD. Another study found that a significant percentage of parents found online therapy as effective as in-person therapy for receiving advice and mental health support related to family challenges.
Takeaway
If your child has ADHD, there are many treatments you can investigate. Although holistic supplements aren't for everyone, a few experts recommend them as a potential symptom management option. However, please consult your child's pediatrician to explore a unique and personalized plan for their specific condition. Some supplements may interact adversely with foods, medications, or allergies, so having a doctor's guidance can be helpful.
If you're a parent looking for support or an adult with ADHD, you can also find guidance by contacting a therapist online or in your area for support.
Frequently asked questions
Read more below for answers to questions commonly asked about this topic.
What holistic supplements help with ADHD in kids?
Supplements for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD, previously known as attention-deficit disorder) in kids may include zinc, omega-3, magnesium, and vitamin D. Also, some children living with ADHD may experience iron deficiency, so an iron supplement may lead to improvement in brain functioning. However, it may be best to speak with a pediatrician before giving a child any natural remedies. Alternative medicine and supplements can sometimes lead to improvement, but there may be risks involved with certain products.
How can I help my child with ADHD without medication?
There are many strategies for helping a child with ADHD without medication. Many children benefit from behavioral therapy, which often involves training for parents. This training may involve education on possible alterations to normal brain function and strategies that tend to help ADHD symptoms improve in children.
What is the #1 supplement helpful for ADHD?
Some people believe that omega-3 is one of the best supplements for ADHD. However, in some cases, this can lead to excessive levels of iron. Researchers also point to zinc as an important supplement as it may help with inattention.
What are the root causes of ADHD?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), ADHD may be caused by a mix of genetics and environmental factors, such as brain injury, premature delivery, and exposure to tobacco or alcohol during pregnancy. ADHD is a childhood disorder that can extend into adulthood. Future research into brain anatomy and physiology through a magnetic resonance imaging study or other methods may reveal more about the causes of ADHD.
What should one not do with a child who has ADHD?
When a child has ADHD, they may experience emotional outbursts at times. While some people may believe that punishment is best for these behaviors, it may not always be under a child’s control, especially if they are experiencing overstimulation. Punishing a child may make them feel ashamed for something that is out of their control. It may be best to avoid punishment and instead use discipline, which tends to emphasize teaching.
How can I help my child focus naturally?
There are a number of strategies that may help a child to focus. Some children may benefit from an ADHD toy, such as a fidget spinner. Others may benefit from a schedule that allows them to take regular breaks. Also, it may help for a child with ADHD to engage in regular exercise, as this may help with managing ADHD symptoms more effectively.
Is there a natural alternative to ADHD medication?
The following are some natural alternatives to ADHD medication:
Zinc supplementation
Fatty acid supplementation (omega-3)
Iron supplementation
Vitamin D supplementation
Before giving iron or other natural products to a child with ADHD, it’s recommended that you speak with a healthcare provider. You might find a doctor through your insurance plan or adolescent psychiatric clinics.
What are the natural alternatives to Adderall?
Some natural alternatives to Adderall may include behavior therapy for kids, with education for parents. Some natural supplements like a multivitamin or zinc may also be helpful. However, natural treatments may work best in conjunction with ADHD medications. When it comes to natural supplements for ADHD, child psychiatrists or pediatricians may be able to offer a treatment plan with guidance specific to your child to improve cognitive function or emotional control.
The information on this page is not intended to be a substitution for diagnosis, treatment, or informed professional advice. You should not take any action or avoid taking any action without consulting with a qualified mental health professional. For more information, please read our terms of use.
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