7 Natural ADHD Remedies to Enhance Focus

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In the last 20 or so years, we’ve seen an increasing number of both kids (and adults) diagnosed with ADHD. In the USA, between 2003 and 2011, the number went up by 41 per cent, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention¹. By 2011, about 11 per cent of children aged 4 to 17 had this diagnosis. That’s around 6.4 million kids¹. In the UK, we saw similar numbers – a recent research survey of over 10,ooo children between the ages of 5 and 15 years found that 3.62% of boys and 0.85% of girls had ADHD, and The UK NICE guidelines show an adult incidence rate of between 3 and 4%.

Many people are worried about the side effects of the commonly prescribed ADHD medicines. These can cause sleep problems, mood changes, and heart issues. Over time, these medicines might also impact blood pressure and how people with ADHD feel about themselves. So, experts are looking at other ways to help, like using biofeedback and implementing diet plans aimed at helping ease the symptoms of ADHD.

ADHD natural remedies are becoming a popular choice instead of the standard drugs, or as a complementary therapy option. They offer a whole-body way to treat ADHD. Many focus on changing what we eat and what our kids come into contact with, like avoiding certain food dyes and preservatives. They also use cool ways like video games to help kids learn to pay better attention. This can often be more attractive for both adults and children than taking a pill or something like that.¹.

Key Takeaways

ADHD diagnoses among children increased by 41 per cent from 2003 to 2011 in the USA, with 11 per cent of children aged 4-17 diagnosed with ADHD as of 2011.
We saw similar, but smaller, increases in the UK
ADHD medications can have severe side effects such as sleep disturbances, mood swings, and elevated diastolic blood pressure.
EEG biofeedback emerged as a promising alternative treatment for ADHD¹.
Dietary adjustments and eliminating food colourings and preservatives may help mitigate ADHD symptoms, as can medical cannabis.

Dietary Adjustments

A balanced diet can help manage ADHD naturally. Foods high in protein are great for keeping blood sugar stable. This stops sudden spikes that can make someone more hyper or impulsive.² Eating beans, eggs, meat, and nuts can help to boost focus. A diet like this may also boost the efficacy of pharmaceutical ADHD medications.³ Eating too much sugar can make hyperactive kids more restless and destructive. So, watch how much sugar they eat.

Eating omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish like salmon and sardines, has been shown to potentially cut ADHD symptoms by half.² They do break down quickly in people with ADHD, so eating them regularly is key. Apples and plums also help protect the brain, thanks to their quercetin. The healthy fats found in foods like Greek yogurt may offer certain ADHD reducing benefits also.³

Some food additives and allergens can make ADHD symptoms worse. Things like artificial dyes and preservatives have been linked to problems in ADHD kids. Cutting these out, along with common allergens like milk, eggs, gluten, and soy, may help improve behaviour. So, shaping a diet that follows these tips might really help reduce ADHD symptoms.

Electroencephalographic (EEG) Biofeedback

Electroencephalographic (EEG) biofeedback is a type of ADHD neuro-therapy. It measures and changes brain waves to help control ADHD symptoms. It tracks alpha, beta, theta, and delta frequencies, which are the brain’s electrical activity in waves⁴. The main aim is to raise beta waves and lower theta waves. This is linked to better concentration and less hyperactivity in people with ADHD. Monastra believes it’s “probably efficacious” for ADHD. CHADD sees it as “possibly efficacious”. The AACAP says it meets the criteria for “Clinical Guidelines” for treating ADHD.

EEG biofeedback uses tasks like video games to help patients learn about thier ADHD while giving them feedback. It helps them keep focused and learn to stop getting distracted. This method doesn’t use drugs, making it an option instead of traditional medicines. Some studies have looked at how well it works, but there are worries Regarding the methodology employed in conducting the studies. Still, some schools use it and find it helps kids with ADHD and learning issues⁴.

For a full round of neurofeedback, you might need more than 40 sessions. There are kits for doing this at home, but they haven’t been checked out in big studies. So, it’s not sure how well doing neurofeedback at home really works for ADHD. A study in 2007 said ADHD affects about 5.29% of people worldwide. This shows we need good ways to treat ADHD⁵. EEG biofeedback keeps getting more popular – it blends high tech with looking at behaviour, aiming to help people with ADHD focus better.

ADHD natural remedies

Yoga and Tai Chi

New findings show that adding yoga to your routine can really help with ADHD. It tackles hyperactivity, unease, and makes social situations easier. Doing yoga often gives your body a workout and helps you relax. This makes it a great method for ADHD relaxation. An in-depth look suggests yoga and Tai Chi fit well with medications for ADHD. This combo boosts your ability to handle ADHD on your own, leading to better results.

ADHD relaxation techniques like yoga and Tai Chi are key parts of treating ADHD in a comprehensive way. Tai Chi stands out for its success in calming anxiety and lowering hyperactivity in young people. These activities help with ADHD symptoms by providing ways to move and relax. They may improve focus and mental health overall.

It’s also key to understand that for some people with ADHD, exercise may help a lot with controlling ADHD symptoms. Aerobic activities boost thinking skills, attention, and behaviour, which is vital for people with ADHD. This adds to the belief that staying active is a big part of managing ADHD well⁶. Adding yoga, Tai Chi, or any physical activity to daily life supports a holistic way of dealing with ADHD effectively.

Spending Time Outside

Research shows that being in nature helps children with ADHD focus better. Both organised and free time in green spaces help. Children with ADHD may see an improvement in symptoms and behaviour⁷. A 20-minute walk in a park boosts attention more than in busy areas, and parents notice better behaviour when kids play in natural places⁸.

Time outside benefits more than just ADHD. It boosts memory, lowers stress, and boosts the immune system. Plus, it helps the body make more Vitamin D⁷. Green space therapy is a safe way to help with ADHD without the use of any medications. It’s also good for the whole family, including adults with ADHD.

Behavioural or Parental Therapy

Behavioural therapy is highly recommended for managing ADHD in children by the American Academy of Pediatrics. It targets behavioural challenges directly. The aim is to lessen them and help by setting up daily routines and achievable aims¹. Such an approach creates structured settings, aiding children in adapting and moving forward. Additionally, parent-focused strategies are key to a child’s success when they are struggling with ADHD.

This form of training provides parents with the skills they may not already have in their parenting skill book. It helps in serious cases of ADHD, combining medication with behaviour changes for a well-rounded plan. With personalised therapy, lasting improvements in behaviour can be achieved. This sets a stage for better management of ADHD’s symptoms⁹.

Herbal Supplements

Using herbs to manage ADHD symptoms can be very helpful. Zinc, L-carnitine, vitamin B-6, and magnesium boost brain function. They help with attention and thinking, which can work well with ADHD medication. These nutrients support the brain in many ways. They are key for those using supplements for ADHD.

Herbs like ginkgo, ginseng, and passionflower can be calming. They are often recommended for ADHD support. However, these herbs might not mix well with all medicines. It’s smart to talk to a doctor before adding them to your routine. This ensures they’re safe and helpful and that you won’t have any negative drug interactions.

Medical cannabis for ADHD

Medical marijuana became legal here in the UK in November 2018, and has since been prescribed for ADHD in adults. ADHD is one of the newest medical conditions to be permitted, which has made it a topic of interest for both doctors and patients alike.

While it is not yet available for patients under the age of 18 through private medical cannabis clinics or the NHS for ADHD, there is hope that this will change in the future. Research into the use of medical cannabis for ADHD is ongoing, with some studies showing positive results in reducing hyperactivity and improving concentration.

Medical weed can help with a wide range of physical and mental health issues, such as chronic pain, anxiety, depression and epilepsy. If you’re considering using medical cannabis for ADHD, it’s essential to speak with a specialist doctor who can advise on the best course of treatment and monitor your progress.

Conclusion

ADHD is an increasingly common diagnosis for both children and adults, and while medication is a primary treatment method, there are many alternative options that can also be effective. From yoga and Tai Chi to spending time outdoors and herbal supplements, there are plenty of natural ways to manage ADHD symptoms.

However, it’s crucial to remember that everyone’s experience with ADHD is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another. It’s essential to consult with a doctor or healthcare professional before trying any new treatments, especially if you are already taking medication.

By combining different techniques and approaches, it’s possible to find an individual solution that works best for managing ADHD. Whether it’s through medication, therapy, or natural remedies, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to treating ADHD. With patience, support, and a willingness to try different methods, it is possible to find relief and improve overall well-being for those living with ADHD.

If you have experience with medical cannabis for ADHD here in the UK, don’t hesitate to leave a review on here at Cannabis Access Clinics, to help others learn more about its effectiveness for ADHD.