What is ADHD?

ADHD used to be called ADD, and some people still refer to it by its old name.  Generally, the symptoms of ADHD involve a lack of attention, hyperactivite behavior, or a combination of the two.  The brain chemistry of people with ADHD exhibits an imbalance of epinephrine, norepinephrine, and dopamine.  This imbalance can affect executive functions, meaning the inhibition of inappropriate behaviors, thoughts, and acts, and the ability to plan and organize for the future.  There is still a lot about ADHD that is a mystery and more discoveries are yet to come.  But the suspected factors that contribute to ADHD, are culture, diet, and genetics.  Generally, the disorder affects children, who often grow out of it as early as adolescence.  However, ADHD is prevalent in adults in the United States, as well.

Peach Vitamins Protocol:

Foods to Eat:
Foods high in Omega 3 (fish, nuts, oils)
High fiber
Whole grains
Fresh fruit
Fresh vegetables

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Foods to Avoid:
Food additives
Artificial flavors
Food coloring (especially yellow tartrazine)
Artificial sweeteners
Benzoate preservatives
BHA (butylated hydroxyanisole) preservatives
BHT (butylated hydroxytoluene) preservatives
Refined sugars
Processed foods
Refined carbohydrates
Gluten
Milk (or specifically casein)
Saturated fat
Trans fat
Sulfiting agents
Citric acid
Chocolate
High fructose corn syrup
Hydrogenated oils
MSG (monosodium glutamate)
Sodium nitrates
Caffeine
Smoke flavoring
Yeast

Notes:
Phthalates, commonly found in plastics, are a toxic group of chemicals that have been linked to ADHD.
One study found a link between ADHD and organophosphate pesticides; most children would be exposed to this through their food.
High levels of lead in the blood has also been linked to ADHD symptoms.
Children need a lot of physical activity and exercise to release pent-up energy and unwind.  Being physically active, especially outdoors, is important to keep ADHD symptoms at bay.
Using full-spectrum lighting can improve the mood, and therefore suppress symptoms of ADHD.

References:
Balch, Phyllis A., CNC. “Prescription for Nutritional Healing.” New York: Penguin Group, 2010.

Watson, Brenda, CNC. “The Road to Perfect Health.” Palm Harbor, FL: Renew Life Press, 2010.

Page, Linda, PhD. “Linda Page’s Healthy Healing – A guide to Self-Healing for Everyone.” Eden Prairie, MN: Healthy Healing, 2006.