Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is a medical condition that affects attention, the ability to sit still, and control impulsive behavior. It is a complex brain disorder and is most common in children. This disorder can affect a child’s academic and social life. Having said that, ADHD affects adults as well. ADHD is normally treated with prescription medications. These medications improve focus and concentration but have potential side-effects as well, such as sleep problems, mood swings, loss of appetite, and heart problems. To stay away from the side-effects, more and more people are adopting natural treatments for ADHD.

Here are some helpful and natural tips to manage the symptoms of ADHD.

Get your vitamins and minerals
Vitamins and minerals play a pivotal role in natural treatments for ADHD. A person with ADHD should consume a vitamin-rich diet and also take vitamin supplements. Vitamins and minerals that are helpful in the treatment of ADHD are:

• Vitamin B6 and magnesium
  Vitamin B is essential for a healthy nervous system. A vitamin B and magnesium-rich diet help to manage ADHD symptoms such as irritability, poor memory, increased activity, and trouble concentrating.
• Vitamin C
  Vitamin C is involved in a variety of brain functions. It is also essential in helping the brain produce neurotransmitters.
• Zinc and iron
  Zinc and iron regulate dopamine, and a deficiency of zinc can cause issues with attention.

Omega-3 supplement
Studies show that omega-3 supplements are quite important for ADHD patients as they help to improve attention, focus, and memory.

Clean diet
A clean diet means a diet with no processed foods, additives, and chemicals. Here are a few things an ADHD patient should avoid.

• Sodium
  The body needs salt to function; however, over-consumption can contribute to several issues such as headaches and hypertension. Hence, it is advisable to limit the intake of salt.
• MSG
  Monosodium glutamate is a flavor enhancer that is added to many foods such as salad dressings, bouillon cubes, and baby foods.
• Sugar and artificial sweeteners
  A high sugar diet can have a negative impact on symptoms of ADHD, including energy crashes, memory issues, and difficulty in focus.
• Stabilize blood sugar
  Eating regularly helps to control blood sugar, which prevents focus and attention issues, irritability, and low physical energy.
• Eat protein
  Protein helps in stabilizing blood sugar levels and influences neurotransmitters. Protein provides a supply of amino acids which helps the brain to function well.

Avoid potential allergens
An allergen restricted diet may help improve behavior in some ADHD patients. Dairy products, chocolates, seafood, and foods containing salicylates such as berries, chili powder, apples, grapes, oranges, plums, tomatoes, and prunes should be avoided.

Exercise
Exercise improves ADHD symptoms and is considered as one of the most important natural treatments for ADHD. You can go running, do yoga, or indulge in other forms of exercises that get your heart running. Playing your favorite sport can be beneficial for ADHD patients.

Sleep
Ample sleep works magic for ADHD patients as less sleep can affect focus and concentration. Good sleep also has a positive effect on mood and general health.

Behavioral or parental therapy
According to studies, behavioral or parental therapy has proved to be one of the most effective natural treatments for ADHD, especially with children. It provides parents with the tools they need to help their child with ADHD.

These natural treatments for ADHD should help manage the symptoms of this condition better.