The Attention Deficit Diet

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[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Published by Pauline Rai – Homeopath. R.HOM Many children and adults who have ADHD generally have a hard time with focus and concentration in school, work and relationships. In addition sleep patterns can also be affected, either sleeping really well, due to exhaustion or not shutting off due to an overactive mind.  Exposure to different environmental influences that disrupt neuro-endocrine pathways in the brain include toxic overload of chemicals from foods consumed to being raised in an over- or under stimulating environment. Adult ADHD individuals show signs of distractibility, impulsivity, restlessness, and hyper-emotionality. Stimulant medications such as amphetamines (Adderall) and methylphenidate  (Ritalin) are most commonly prescribed for ADHD. Recent research now supports the efficacy of cognitive behavioral therapies either with or without medications in treating adults. Cognitive behavior therapies can help to release emotional or mental blocks such as low self-esteem and attachment or attunement issues associated with this diagnosis. Prescription medication at best seems to work for about 50 percent of the population and is the first line of treatment with either positive or negative effects. The positive effects are often dramatic, improving alertness and mental focus however, certain safety concerns such as the sympathomimetic effects that stimulants can cause measureable increases in heart rate and blood pressure should be avoided by individuals who are at risk for cardiovascular problems. So while medical researchers continue in the hope of developing medications that are more capable of positive change without side effects, both macro and micronutrients to support and benefit individuals should be considered. The Mediterranean Diet is generally ideal, which requires processed foods or refined foods high in sugars or simple carbohydrates, and foods that contain dyes as well as saturated fats, and fried foods to be removed.   The Mediterranean Diet

  • 5 servings of complex Carbohydrates such as leafy greens and vegetables.
  •  2-3 Protein servings (3-4 oz. per serving)
  • 1-3 portions of Legumes- ½ cup/ serving  (beans, hummus, peas)
  • 1-2 Dairy. 4-8 oz.
  • Nuts and Seeds (sesame, pumpkin, pine nuts, peanuts)
  • 1-3 servings of Fruit
  • 1-3 servings of Grains (Basmati or brown rice, teff, oats, spelt, barley)
  • 1-2 Tbsp. cold pressed Oils.

Individual differences can vary for the minimum macronutrients based on body composition, which we can calculate with a BMI test at the clinic, but if no improvements are seen following the Mediterranean diet then an accredited IgA- or an IgG food sensitivity test should be considered. With this test we move into the elimination diet and remove foods that are causing sensitivity and then re-introduce and rotate the diet to include them in modification.   The micronutrients beneficial for neurological health are:

  • Magnesium bound to Citrate.  The primary function is enzyme activation.
  • Calcium, for the release of neurotransmitters.
  • Iron. Is involved in the synthesis of Dopamine within the brain.
  •  Zinc. Assists the body and brain with the utilization of free fatty acids.
  •  Vitamin B6 to augment the therapeutic effects of magnesium.

These micronutrients are co-factors in bio-chemical processes. Testing for deficiencies with our accredited medical laboratory test using the hair element analysis has a significant advantage over blood tests and urine samples which only measure the levels from one point in time whereas hair analysis reflects long term exposure to the various elements including toxins that block absorption. Good health depends on having the right balance of nutritional elements and low levels of toxic elements.  A hair element analysis is an easy and inexpensive way to measure these levels to restore balance with the correct dosage.   Essential fatty acids and other formulations In addition essential fatty acids such as the omega 3 with an EPA:  500-2000mg and DHA: 250-1000 mg should be initiated for several months before using omega 6 : 2000-4000 mg . Other formulations which can be used as a stand alone for a range of issues such as momentary or prolonged stress, sleeplessness, memory alertness, mental focus, mood support, anxiety, and fatigue, but are designed for greater effectiveness as a part of a more comprehensive lifestyle or nutritional support program includes phytonutrients and herbal extracts used in traditional Chinese medicine to support neurological health.  For instance, Ginkgo Biloba Extract promotes cerebral circulation and mental sharpness. The bud is more effective than the leaf extract. Asian Ginseng and Chinese skullcap are formulated in ratio with L-5-HTP and L-theanine to support healthy levels of specific neurotransmitters in the product Serosyn for mental well -being. A range of different formulations can be personalized by our health care practitioners to modify additional protocols for a more comprehensive approach to your health, such as programs to support gastrointestinal health, cardiovascular health, healthy immune system function and metabolic detoxification.  The following products below highlight neurological health.[/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”5074″ alignment=”center” img_link_target=”_self” img_size=”full” el_class=”pretty “][vc_column_text]Ginkgo – Biloba Bud Extract[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”5090″ alignment=”center” img_link_target=”_self” img_size=”full” el_class=”pretty “][vc_column_text]Serosyn – Support for positive moods and calm.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”5087″ alignment=”center” img_link_target=”_self” img_size=”full” el_class=”pretty “][vc_column_text]Nusera – Relief for stressful moments.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”5089″ alignment=”center” img_link_target=”_self” img_size=”full” el_class=”pretty “][vc_column_text]Serenegen – Traditional Heart calming formula to reduce hyperactivity.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”5077″ alignment=”center” img_link_target=”_self” img_size=”full” el_class=”pretty “][vc_column_text]Adreset – Relief for stress and fatigue.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”5082″ alignment=”center” img_link_target=”_self” img_size=”full” el_class=”pretty “][vc_column_text]Cortico B5 B6 – Support for adrenal hormones.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”5085″ alignment=”center” img_link_target=”_self” img_size=”full” el_class=”pretty “][vc_column_text]Mitovive – Cell function support.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”5080″ alignment=”center” img_link_target=”_self” img_size=”full” el_class=”pretty “][vc_column_text]Ceralin Forte – Brain and nervous system support.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”5078″ alignment=”center” img_link_target=”_self” img_size=”full” el_class=”pretty “][vc_column_text]Attencia – For focus and cognitive support.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”5081″ alignment=”center” img_link_target=”_self” img_size=”full” el_class=”pretty “][vc_column_text]Ceriva – Multidimensional cognitive and memory support.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”5079″ alignment=”center” img_link_target=”_self” img_size=”full” el_class=”pretty “][vc_column_text]Benesom – Relief for occasional sleeplessness.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”5093″ alignment=”center” img_link_target=”_self” img_size=”full” el_class=”pretty “][vc_column_text]Trancor – Neurotransmitter balance.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”5091″ alignment=”center” img_link_target=”_self” img_size=”full” el_class=”pretty “][vc_column_text]St. Johns Wort with Folate and B12 – Mood support formula.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”5083″ alignment=”center” img_link_target=”_self” img_size=”full” el_class=”pretty “][vc_column_text]EPA DHA 720 oil – Supports a positive mood and overall health.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”5084″ alignment=”center” img_link_target=”_self” img_size=”full” el_class=”pretty “][vc_column_text]GABA – Supports relaxation and focus.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”5088″ alignment=”center” img_link_target=”_self” img_size=”full” el_class=”pretty “][vc_column_text]Omega 800 – Supports cognitive and brain function.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”5092″ alignment=”center” img_link_target=”_self” img_size=”full” el_class=”pretty “][vc_column_text]Super EFA Liquid Plus CoQ10 – Assists in reducing high cholesterol levels.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”5086″ alignment=”center” img_link_target=”_self” img_size=”full” el_class=”pretty “][vc_column_text]NeuraPas – Establishes emotional balance.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”5100″ alignment=”center” img_link_target=”_self” img_size=”full” el_class=”pretty “][vc_column_text]True Hope EMP – Proven effective in reducing or eliminating symptoms of ADHD and other mental disorders.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”5101″ alignment=”center” img_link_target=”_self” img_size=”full” el_class=”pretty “][vc_column_text]Biotheraputic Drainage – Stress & Insomnia Support[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”5102″ alignment=”center” img_link_target=”_self” img_size=”full” el_class=”pretty “][vc_column_text]Glutamine – Them memory and concentration amino acid.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”5103″ alignment=”center” img_link_target=”_self” img_size=”full” el_class=”pretty “][vc_column_text]Brain Boost – Restores overall mind/body balance.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/3″][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/1″][vc_column_text] Clients who prefer a customized assessment can contact us at 587-805-1520.     References: Psychopharmacology (2005) by JS Meyer and LF Quenzer .2013 Scattered Minds. The Origins and Healing of Attention Deficit Disorder by: Gabor Mate MD. Vintage Canada Edition. 2012.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row]

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Health practitioners who have years of experience in the natural medicine field. We provide health supplements and vitamins to support healthy living. Our articles are researched and talk about the products we carry.

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