Improved
6112 HealthChanged
3785 LivesSaved
3568 Lives0 lives impacted in the last 24 hrs Learn More
Many people with ADHD use alternative treatments, sometimes in conjunction with conventional medications and sometimes without. While results from research on alternative treatments have been mixed, many people have experienced relief from various ADHD symptoms through their usage.
This is true for instance of dietary changes and supplementation of natural products like essential fatty acids, herbal preparations like gingko biloba and American ginseng, and trace element supplementation like zinc, iron and acetyl-L-carnitine.
Activities like yoga and massage, and time spent outside in nature have resulted in improvement of ADHD symptoms for some.
"To be most effective, the integrative management of ADHD should be individualized, taking into account the specific causes of the syndrome in each patient, including genetic factors, perinatal insults or toxic exposure, food sensitivities, and social factors. Stimulant and nonstimulant medications are often beneficial and are well tolerated for a significant percentage of children, adolescents, and adults with ADHD. When stimulants are ineffective, poorly tolerated, or refused by the patient (or the patient’s parents), validated EEG biofeedback protocols—including SMR training for primarily hyperactive-type ADHD and theta suppression for primarily inattentive-type ADHD—are reasonable alternatives."
http://www.psychiatrictimes.com/adhd/content/article/10168/1603662
Add a Comment2 Comments
There are also so many alternatives and opinions not only via parents but obviously medical professionals as well as to the treatment and causes of ADHD. I myself have a young child diagnosed with it very early in age and we do mix natural and prescription medication to help. Unfortunately its a trial and error and not one thing will work with every child. I definitely have realized I have to be my child's best advocate and complete supporter while rallying for the support from others (teachers, school) as well. I have met people who have used both natural and prescription or one or the other to help their child. one thing is sure there is help, and there are plenty of alternatives for anyone and any child.
July 12, 2010 - 8:54pmThis Comment
The name, attention deficit, itself makes us think that our child's problems are due to lack of attention. They don' t lack attention, they have trouble directing attention. Additionally, the can't finish tasks, inappropriate social behavior, memory problems, cognitive problems, etc. Our school uses a program called Play Attention to teach cognitive, memory, and behavioral skills. We've used it at home with great success. We also use ADHD Nanny for structure and consequences. I think that once we know that the problem is far greater than attention, we can find the right programs for our kids. We first have to recognize that we've got to be our child's greatest advocate and coach as well as parent.
July 9, 2010 - 8:42amThis Comment