Over 3 million new United States cases are reported per year. This is a staggering number.
ADHD is a highly genetic, brain-based syndrome that has to do with the regulation of a particular set of brain functions and related behaviors. These brain operations are referred to as executive functioning skills and include important functions such as attention, concentration, memory, motivation and effort, learning from mistakes, impulsive behavior, hyperactivity, organization, and social skills. There are various contributing factors that play a role in these challenges including chemical and structural differences in the brain.
Research shows that those with ADHD have abnormalities in how the neurotransmitters dopamine and nor-epinephrine work to facilitate communication between neurons and activation of various brain functions .Differences in the communication route related to reward and consequence, a pathway involving dopamine activity have been found to be particularly problematic in the brains of individuals with ADHD, as have brain networks involved in the engagement and regulation of attention. Disruptions in serotonin levels and activity may also play a role, particularly in affecting the modulation and regulation of the dopamine system.
Lifestyle Recommendations:
• Change environment to reduce electronic distractions, noise, clutter and overall stress. • Consider biofeedback, neurofeedback, brain games (crosswords, Sudoku, Brain Gym), and/or music therapy. • Plan ahead using daily planners/to-do lists, time-management techniques, or professional organizers rather than impulsive activity. • Engage in exercises that encourage focus and boost mood like dance, aerobic exercise, swimming, martial arts or yoga. • Get adequate sleep; room should be dark and without blue light from electronic devices. • Spend more time outdoors in nature. • Avoid over-exposure to metals, especially lead from fresh paint and markers; avoid exposure to commercial chemicals in house cleaning products and lawn applications.
Dietary Tips and Caveats:
• Reduce sugar; eliminate high fructose corn syrup, food additives and GMO ingredients. • Eat healthy fats such as wild-caught fish, avocado, coconut oil and raw nuts. • Eat organically to avoid pesticides. • Eat high quality protein that is hormone-free and preferably pasture-raised. • Eat plenty of leafy green vegetables, like spinach and polyphenol-rich fruits such as berries and apples for extra nutrition. • Avoid trigger foods such as gluten, dairy, soy, and more.
Can Neurofeedback help with ADD/ADHD?
Research shows that Neurofeedback can improve focus and help manage behavioral, cognitive and mood challenges that many people report having with ADD/ADHD.
Will Chiropractic treatment help with my diagnosis?
Yes. By correcting any nerve interference due to a subluxation, neurological function is improved. All functions of the body are controlled by the nervous system. ADHD is a known central nervous system disorder. When there is stress and tension in the nerve system, caused by common childhood occurrences like birth, falls, and sports, behavior problems may arise. Chiropractic adjustments calm the nervous system.