Any parent who has really taken the time to research the prescription drug treatments that are available to treat ADHD are well aware of the potential for dangerous side effects.
Yet even with this knowledge, many parents still medicate their children who have this condition because they feel that medicine is the only real option.
However, there are alternative treatments available.
Children who have ADHD are deficient in neurotransmitters, mainly dopamine and norepinehprine.
The idea behind the medications is to stimulate the production of these natural brain chemicals.
This helps the child to become more focused and pay attention better.
It also increases one's ability to stay calm and have more self control.
Medications are often prescribed along with behavioral therapy.
The problem with this approach is that attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is caused by more than just chemical imbalances in the brain and effectively treating this condition involves more than just taking medicine.
It is important to address the underlying cause of this condition.
This is where natural treatments come in.
This disorder can be tricky to effectively treat because a remedy may work wonders for one child, while not help another child at all.
That is why it is important to do your research.
A particular treatment's effectiveness has a lot to do with an individual's chemical make-up, and medical history.
Talk with your child's doctor or specialist about natural remedies that can help your child's individual needs.
According to numerous studies, hyperactive children also often have vitamin and nutrient deficiencies.
They are often deficient in minerals such as zinc, magnesium, and calcium.
Omega-3 essential oils are effective in helping manage the symptoms in some children.
A health care professional may test your child for possible deficiencies of certain vitamins and nutrients.
Research also suggests that hyperactive children also tend to lack adequate stimulation of the brain.
This is why it is important not to let them spend several hours a day watching television or playing on the computer.
It is more productive to keep them active and let them spend their after school hours outside playing.
The physical activity helps stimulate the brain and keeps the blood flowing.
It also gives them a positive way to release some of their excess energy.