Fast Food and ADHD
When I discuss the topic of ADHD (and ADD) with Parents, I always discuss the child's and family's nutritional status. The AAP (American Academy of Pediatrics) issued a very strong statement last year; "Children should eat fast food no more than 1 time per week." It was the first time a national doctors group has publicly issued a "warning" on the food industry. With all children, and especially kids with ADHD, we strongly follow this guideline, along with the warning to decrease processed (white) sugar, artificial food dyes, preservatives and additives. Both sugar and red dyes have been implicated in the development and causation of ADHD. We recommend a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, whole grains, organic dairy (when possible) and all organic meats. Also, multivitamins daily, omega 3 fatty acid supplements, and in some cases iron and B vitamins. Vitamin D has also recently hit the radar as an important micro-nutrient for the developing brain, as well as other organs.
Many ADHD kids crave carbs, so a lot of time and discussion goes into finding foods to replace them. Nuts, legumes, juices high in Amino Acids and fiber also help. Some children, with dietary changes alone, can learn to control their impulsivity and hyperactivity and will not need further therapy. However, the majority of youth diagnosed with ADHD will need more. Other options include behavioral therapy, biofeedback, occupational therapy and ADHD medications.
A thorough evaluation for other organic causes of the symptoms is always warranted, along with constant monitoring and a treatment plan. At Calcagno Pediatrics we have a standard evaluation process, educational handouts and a follow up plan. We see children on medication at least every 3 months, and follow their height, weight, and blood pressure very closely. We also insist on school reports, academic testing and counseling in many cases. The largest long-term study to date, the MTA study ( Multi Treatment ADHD) has followed children for almost 10 years now. This study is based out of Massachusettes General Hospital with over 500 children.
At Cyn3rgy Research, we hope to study children and adults with ADHD to learn how better we can aid this growing segment of our population. It is estimated that currently 8-10% of children and 4-5 % of adults have the disorder.
When I discuss the topic of ADHD (and ADD) with Parents, I always discuss the child's and family's nutritional status. The AAP (American Academy of Pediatrics) issued a very strong statement last year; "Children should eat fast food no more than 1 time per week." It was the first time a national doctors group has publicly issued a "warning" on the food industry. With all children, and especially kids with ADHD, we strongly follow this guideline, along with the warning to decrease processed (white) sugar, artificial food dyes, preservatives and additives. Both sugar and red dyes have been implicated in the development and causation of ADHD. We recommend a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, whole grains, organic dairy (when possible) and all organic meats. Also, multivitamins daily, omega 3 fatty acid supplements, and in some cases iron and B vitamins. Vitamin D has also recently hit the radar as an important micro-nutrient for the developing brain, as well as other organs.
Many ADHD kids crave carbs, so a lot of time and discussion goes into finding foods to replace them. Nuts, legumes, juices high in Amino Acids and fiber also help. Some children, with dietary changes alone, can learn to control their impulsivity and hyperactivity and will not need further therapy. However, the majority of youth diagnosed with ADHD will need more. Other options include behavioral therapy, biofeedback, occupational therapy and ADHD medications.
A thorough evaluation for other organic causes of the symptoms is always warranted, along with constant monitoring and a treatment plan. At Calcagno Pediatrics we have a standard evaluation process, educational handouts and a follow up plan. We see children on medication at least every 3 months, and follow their height, weight, and blood pressure very closely. We also insist on school reports, academic testing and counseling in many cases. The largest long-term study to date, the MTA study ( Multi Treatment ADHD) has followed children for almost 10 years now. This study is based out of Massachusettes General Hospital with over 500 children.
At Cyn3rgy Research, we hope to study children and adults with ADHD to learn how better we can aid this growing segment of our population. It is estimated that currently 8-10% of children and 4-5 % of adults have the disorder.
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