Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD) Part 2

ADHD can make life difficult for an individual. What makes ADHD more challenging for an individual is the failure to see the connection between the lack of a nourishing diet and the “disorder”.  Many of us have heard the saying “You are what you eat!” However, how often do parents of children or adults diagnosed with ADHD consider that adding to, or subtracting certain foods from the diet, simply making gradual changes can be a key component in lessening the symptoms that one is experiencing? Jesus says, “I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health” (3 John 2). 

Many of you may be aware that ADHD manifests itself through symptoms such as difficulty paying attention, and concentrating, hyperactivity and impulsive behavior. However, the Mayo clinic reports that ADHD has also been linked to:

• Poor school or work performance

• Unemployment

• Financial problems

• Trouble with the law

• Alcohol or other substance misuse

• Frequent car accidents or other accidents

• Unstable relationships

• Poor physical and mental health

• Poor self-image

• Suicide attempts

Is it then not worth some valuable attention? Are there specific foods that should be a part of the dietary regimen? Has the Lord given us a dietary plan that can help us with this condition? 

Research published in Fighting Disease with Food (2017) reveals some valuable information that gives hope to ADHD sufferers. Note the following:

Vitamin B6 found in bananas helps the brain to produce dopamine, serotonin and norepinephrine. These brain chemicals play a role in having consistent normal behavior. 

Omega 3 fatty acids found in chia seeds play a role in brain cell communication and facilitate the normal transmission of the neurotransmitters serotonin, and dopamine in the brain.

Magnesium found in navy beans controls some of the processes of the nervous system, and when it is deficient in the diet, the result is neuromuscular hyperactivity.

The minerals zinc, phosphorus, selenium and calcium, as well as protein and riboflavin are present in tofu (a derivative of soy). These nutrients work together to decrease the risk of ADHD.

Zinc found in peanuts play a role in the metabolism of neurotransmitters. When there is a zinc deficiency, mental development is slowed, and there is the accompaniment of impaired concentration.

The good news is that God has given us a plant-based diet consisting of grains, nuts and seeds, fruits and vegetables. And there are multiple foods that provide similar nutrients that the body needs than those aforementioned. You can prayerfully explore different recipes with the foods that your body needs to keep the symptoms of ADHD at bay. You can eliminate the consumption of “lots of processed foods at home and lots of junk foods away from home” (Ferrel & Cherne, 2008). The health of your body has a profound effect on your spirituality, and there must be the remembrance to “fear God and give glory to Him” (Revelation 14:7). Why not let your food be your medicine, and refuse to believe that ADHD must be a lifetime interrupter?