Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterised by symptoms such as inattentiveness & impulsivity, with or without hyperactivity, which can disrupt daily life.
ADHD affects approximately 6–10% of children & adolescents & 2–6% of adults in Australia. Given these rates, it is estimated that over 800,000 Australians live with ADHD, making it the most common psychiatric condition in young people. Importantly, ADHD does not influence intelligence.
Types and Symptoms of ADHD
ADHD is categorised into three types:
Inattentive Type:
Symptoms include difficulty sustaining attention, frequent careless mistakes, trouble organising tasks & forgetfulness.
Hyperactive Type:
Symptoms include excessive fidgeting, difficulty remaining seated, excessive talking, impulsivity & acting as if driven by a motor.
Combined Type:
Exhibits a mix of symptoms from both inattentive & hyperactive types.
Each ADHD diagnosis is unique, with countless symptom combinations. This variability means that ADHD can present differently in every child or adult.
Dopamine Dysregulation & ADHD
A prominent hypothesis for ADHD involves a dysregulated dopamine system. Dopamine, a neurotransmitter, plays a crucial role in pleasure, attention & information processing. It creates a sense of satisfaction, like the feeling after completing a task or enjoying a treat. In those with ADHD, dopamine-related dysfunction may create a higher threshold for experiencing rewards, requiring more stimulation to feel the same level of satisfaction.
This increased need for reward can lead to behaviours such as craving sugary foods or engaging excessively in activities that provide instant gratification, like playing video games.
Excessive screen time, for example, can desensitise the brain’s reward system. Activities like gaming release large amounts of dopamine & brain scans show similarities to the effects of substance use. Overusing these pathways makes them less sensitive, requiring more stimulation to feel pleasure. Limiting screen time, particularly before bed, can help reduce symptoms & improve sleep quality.
Nutritional Support for ADHD
Nutrient imbalances can mimic or worsen ADHD symptoms. Correcting these imbalances can provide significant support:
Magnesium
Essential for producing neurotransmitters like dopamine & norepinephrine, magnesium helps to relax the nervous system & supports energy production. High activity levels increase magnesium use, so sufficient intake is crucial.
Zinc
Involved in over 450 enzyme processes, zinc is critical for neurotransmitter production, gut health, immune function, & hormone regulation. High copper levels can block zinc, potentially leading to anxiety or aggressive behaviour. Additionally, a zinc deficiency can promote gut imbalances, like candida overgrowth, which worsens dopamine regulation.
Iron
Adequate iron levels are necessary for attention and cognitive function. Low iron can impair dopamine production, leading to worsened ADHD symptoms.
Strategies for Managing ADHD
Reduce Screen Time
Monitoring & reducing screen exposure is critical. Implement a rule where devices are handed in an hour before bedtime to promote healthy sleep & minimise overstimulation.
Maintain a Nutrient-Rich Diet
Focus on whole foods rich in magnesium, zinc, iron & B vitamins. This includes leafy greens, nuts, seeds, lean meats
& whole grains. Limiting sugar & processed foods can also help regulate energy levels & neurotransmitter function.
Testing
I use Organic Acid Testing (OAT) to assess a child’s health (or Adult). This is a non-invasive urine test which measures 70 markers in the body including gut health, neurotransmitters such as dopamine, norepinephrine & serotonin, mitochondria (energy), detox pathways such as methylation & some nutrients levels such as folate, B12, B6, B2, glutathione & coenzyme Q10. Organic Acid Testing allows us to see where the most support is needed.
Managing ADHD effectively often requires a comprehensive, personalised approach. As a clinical Naturopath, I help tailor treatment strategies to meet an individual’s needs. Addressing lifestyle & dietary factors empowers those with ADHD to improve focus, behaviour & overall well-being.
By understanding ADHD through the lens of lifestyle & nutrition, individuals & families can adopt supportive practices that lead to a healthier, more balanced life.
By Bianca Bawden
Clinical Naturopath, Herbalist & Nutritionist
@healthbybianca
Leave a Reply