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Alternative medicine
By Mayo Clinic staffThere's little research that indicates that alternative medicine treatments can significantly reduce ADHD symptoms, although some do appear to help. These include:
- Yoga. There's growing evidence yoga may help alleviate symptoms of ADHD.
- Special diets. Most diets for ADHD involve eliminating foods thought to increase hyperactivity, such as sugar and caffeine, and common allergens such as wheat, milk and eggs. Some diets recommend eliminating artificial food colorings and additives. So far, studies haven't found a consistent link between diet and improved symptoms of ADHD, though a limited number of studies suggest diet changes might make a difference.
- Vitamin or mineral supplements. While certain vitamins and minerals are necessary for good health, there's no evidence that supplemental vitamins or minerals can reduce symptoms of ADHD. "Megadoses" of vitamins — doses that far exceed the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) — can be harmful.
- Herbal supplements. The verdict is still out on whether taking hypericum, ginseng, ginkgo, traditional Chinese medicine formulas or other herbal remedies may help with ADHD.
- Essential fatty acids. These fats, which include omega-3 oils, are necessary for the brain to function properly. Researchers are still investigating whether these they may improve ADHD symptoms.
- Glyconutrients. The term "glyconutrients" refers to eight specific sugars that theoretically reduce symptoms by helping form important compounds called glycoproteins. While sugars are necessary for brain function, it isn't clear whether glyconutrient supplements have any effect on ADHD.
- Neurofeedback training. Also called electroencephalographic biofeedback, this treatment involves regular sessions in which a child focuses on certain tasks while using a machine that shows brain wave patterns. Theoretically, a child can learn to keep brain wave patterns active in the front of the brain — improving symptoms of ADHD. More research is needed to see whether this treatment works.
References
- Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. In: Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders DSM-IV-TR. 4th ed. Arlington, Va.: American Psychiatric Association; 2000. http://www.psychiatryonline.com. Accessed Jan. 21, 2009.
- Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder. National Institute of Mental Health. http://www.nimh.nih.gov. Accessed Jan. 21, 2009.
- Plizska S. Practice parameter for the assessment and treatment of children and adolescents with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Journal of the Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychology. 2007;46:894.
- Vitiello B. Understanding the risk of using medications for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder with respect to physical growth and cardiovascular function. Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Clinics of North America. 2008;17:459.
- Perrin JM. Cardiovascular monitoring and stimulant drugs for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Pediatrics 2008;122:451.
- Overview of Section 504. Council of Educators for Students with Disabilities. http://www.504idea.org/504overview.html. Accessed Jan. 26, 2009.
- Weber W, et al. Complementary and alternative medical therapies for attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and autism. Pediatric Clinics of North America. 2007;54:983.
- Jensen PS, et al. The effects of yoga on the attention and behavior of boys with ADHD. Journal of Attention Disorders. 2004;7:205.
- Peck HL, et al. Yoga as an intervention for children with attention problems. School Psychology Reviews. 2005;34:415.
