Fatty Acids and Adhd

Managing ADHD with a Diet

Diet has attracted considerable attention in the healthcare sector with regards to its significance and role in addressing childhood and adult attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). As shown by recent research, this increased focus on diet is influenced by the fact that ADHD's development is strongly linked to nutrition since it's characterized by deficiencies in minerals, omega-3 fatty acids. There are reports that improved nutrition through intake of mineral and vitamin supplements. While this evidence is yet to be fully determined scientifically, there are proofs that omega-3 fatty acids could have impacts on a child's behavior. The other dietary factors that allegedly have significant effects on behavior include refined sugars as well as food additives and allergies (Collingwood, n.d.).

The role of omega-3 fatty acids in enhancing the behaviors of ADHD patients, especially children, has been strongly supported by evidence that show the link between nutritional/dietary factors and learning and behavior. These fatty acids are believed to help in dealing with ADHD symptoms since they are converted to docosahexaneoic acid that is utilized in the eyes and brain. Contrary to popular belief omega-3 fatty acids cause or worsen ADHD symptoms, theoretical evidence exists to demonstrate their effectiveness in treating this disorder. However, the use of these fatty acids in ADHD treatment is not recommended because it's yet to be classified as evidence-based practice.

Based on the findings of another research, zinc supplements are considered to be beneficial in treating ADHD since children with this condition have been found to suffer from iron deficiency. However, iron and zinc supplements are also yet to be classified as evidence-based practices for ADHD treatment and are therefore not recommended. Diet containing processed foods and soft drinks as well as high sugar intake could be associated with hyperactivity though comprehensive studies do not show this relationship.

Even though studies have not established the link between food additives and some ADHD symptoms, some studies have shown a small link between these two variables. This include additives like artificial flavorings/colorings and preservatives. Food additives have not been proven to cause attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, some preservatives and colorings worsen hyperactivity among young children. Consequently, eliminating colorings from diets of children exhibiting such behavior is recommended.

Adults with ADHD should evaluate dietary studies on factors that affect children with this condition. For instance, omega-3 supplements have been proven to generate enhanced attention in healthy adults because these fatty acids positively affect the central nervous system. Other studies have shown that sufficient glucose levels in the blood contribute to enhanced attention control among adults (Collingwood, n.d.).

Given these factors, treatment of ADHD requires proper clinical diagnosis and evaluation of all probable treatment alternatives. During this process, nutritional therapies and suitable doses should be considered as alternative treatment interventions. However, the patient and his/her family should ultimately make decisions regarding nutritional supplements and therapy.