10 Foods (and Supplements and Vitamins!) to Boost Your ADHD Brain

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends treating ADHD in children and adolescents with FDA-approved medications, plus parent training in behavior modification and behavioral classroom interventions.

Likewise, research confirms that “stimulant medications are most effective, and combined medication and psychosocial treatment is the most beneficial treatment option for most adult patients with ADHD.” Still, many individuals seek to augment their ADHD treatment plans with natural therapies ranging from nutrition and vitamins and herbs and fish oil.“Parents and adults see me either because the ADHD medication isn’t doing the job, or they want more improvement and can’t increase the dosage without increasing side effects,” says Richard Brown, M.D., associate clinical professor of psychiatry at Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, and co-author of the recent book How to Use Herbs, Nutrients, and Yoga in Mental Health Care.Here are 10 of the most popular natural ADHD remedies — including foods, ADHD supplements, and herbs — and research findings for each.All ADHD treatment decisions should be made in consultation and coordination with a licensed medical provider.Poor nutrition can cause a child or adult with ADHD to become distracted, impulsive, and restless.

The right foods, on the other hand, can lessen those symptoms.Foods rich in protein — lean beef, pork, poultry, fish, eggs, beans, nuts, soy, and dairy products — are used by the body to make neurotransmitters, the chemicals released by brain cells to communicate with each other.

Protein can prevent surges in blood sugar, which increase hyperactivity.“Because the body makes brain-awakening neurotransmitters when you eat protein, start your.