Could Dietary Changes Improve Attention Deficit Issues?

Attention Deficit Disorders (ADD) and Hyperactivity are characterized by symptoms of impulsiveness, which aren't age-appropriate for both children and adults, along with concentration issues and sometimes excessive activity.

This disorder can stem from learning difficulties or lack of social skills.

Diagnosis is based on symptoms and behavior, yet there are often disagreements about interpretation. This means each diagnostician has a different perspective, and conclusions can sometimes conflict. Some may see this as acceptable behavior, while others may interpret the same behavior as problematic.

Many parents of children with attention issues feel that the disorder is linked to the quality and type of their child's diet.

Most of these parents are absolutely right. Kids consuming a lot of sugar, preservatives, and food colorings in growing amounts without control, along with fast food like hot dogs and fried items, sugary and fizzy drinks - their young bodies suffer from the toxins present in these foods. This leads to a toxic reaction, which for some children is evident in colds or digestive problems, while for others it plays out as behavioral issues.

The problem is that many doctors (though not all) underestimate the importance of proper nutrition. Instead of providing nutritional treatment, they prescribe medication intended to suppress symptoms, neglecting the root cause.

There are instances where medication is necessary, but these are rare. These days, there's a "quick trigger" on prescriptions.

Before deciding on medication, it's highly recommended to try changing diet and addressing deficiencies.

To offer your child clean food, you need to prepare meals yourself. You don't have to make special dishes; just focus on B vitamins found in whole foods and leafy vegetables – they help calm and reduce stress.

Incorporate good proteins daily, such as fish, legumes, and nuts.

Foods containing vitamin C aid in detoxifying the body, and these can be found in fresh fruits and vegetables.

There is a link between iron deficiency and short-term attention disorders – this can be checked with a blood test. If a deficiency is found, compensate with iron-rich foods like molasses (sulfur-free), one teaspoon daily.

Choose foods without monosodium glutamate, food colorings, and artificial flavorings.

Lastly, sugar itself is a substance that leads to hyperactivity. You'll notice a change when reducing sugar intake.

Zohara Shavit is a Naturopath N.D and iridology evaluator, with extensive experience in treatment, consultation, and workshop facilitation. To schedule a free workshop, call 073-2221290.